For the first time in over a decade, the Boston Bruins are set to pick in the top 10 of the NHL Draft. After a rough 2024-25 season, the Bruins are hoping to land a blue chip talent to turn things around. With the draft lottery coming up, here’s a look at eight prospects who could be a fit for the Bruins.
Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
If the Bruins get lucky and get a top two pick, Michael Misa could be the answer to their center problem.
- Why He Fits: Misa is a dynamic offensive player who can score and create. 134 points (62 goals, 72 assists) in 65 games last season is elite. Compared to Steven Stamkos and Brayden Point, Misa has the hockey IQ and skill to be a franchise center.
- Impact on Boston: Misa would give the Bruins a top six center who can drive the power play and penalty kill. 6-foot-1, 184 pounds, he’s got room to grow physically, but already has video game like stats.
Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie Otters (OHL)
If the Bruins get the No. 1 overall pick, Matthew Schaefer might be too good to pass up—even if they need a center more.
- Why He Fits: Schaefer is a smooth-skating, two-way defenseman with elite offensive upside. Even with missing part of the season due to injury, he had 22 points in 17 games and was Erie’s best defenseman.
- Impact on Boston: Pairing Schaefer with Charlie McAvoy would give the Bruins one of the best top defensive pairs in the NHL for years to come. While centers are a bigger need, Schaefer’s high ceiling makes him a nice option.
James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)
Hagens might not be the sexy pick some fans want, but his skill set matches what the Bruins need.
- Why He Fits: A faster skater than Jack Hughes, Hagens is known for his speed and playmaking. His freshman season wasn’t as explosive as expected but he had 37 points in 37 games against tough competition.
- Impact on Boston: If available at 5-7, Hagens would bring immediate value as a future top-line center. His skating and vision makes him a versatile weapon who could play with Boston’s established scorers.
Anton Frondell, C, Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan)
Frondell may not have the name recognition, but his pro-ready game makes him a safe yet exciting pick.
- Why He Fits: The Swedish center dominated Sweden’s second-tier league, 25 points in 29 games—a historic feat for a U-18 player. Frondell has a heavy shot and is physical, a two-way forward.
- Impact on Boston: As a shot-first center, Frondell could get into the NHL quicker than most prospects. His size (6-foot-1, 198 pounds) and skill checks all the boxes for a top-six role.
Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
Desnoyers may not be flashy, but he’s reliable and all around.
- Why He Fits: He’s a “safe” pick because of his well rounded game. 84 points in the regular season and 24 in the playoffs shows his consistency.
- Impact on Boston: Not a top liner but his versatility and discipline makes him a Selke Trophy contender down the road. He’d be a second line center or shutdown role.
Jake O’Brien, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
O’Brien’s stock is rising and for good reason he’s a natural playmaker with untapped potential.
- Why He Fits: 98 points in 66 games shows he can produce at a high level. His vision and passing ability stands out especially near the net.
- Impact on Boston: Needs to work on his skating and add muscle but O’Brien’s creativity and finishing ability projects him as a top 6 forward in a few years.
Roger McQueen, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
McQueen brings size and skill but durability and skating are concerns.
- Why He Fits: 6’5” and hard to miss on the ice. Despite injuries this season he showed flashes of brilliance with 20 points in 17 games.
- Impact on Boston: If McQueen becomes a reliable 2nd line center his size and skill would be a nightmare matchup for opponents. But his injury history is a red flag.
Porter Martone, RW, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
Martone is a unique blend of grit and skill that would be a fan favorite in Boston.
- Why He Fits: 6’3” and uses his body to win battles and finish plays. 98 points with Brampton shows he can dominate games physically and offensively.
- Impact on Boston: Martone’s tenacity and scoring ability makes him a power forward. Even if he’s not their biggest need at center he’d be a big boost to the forward depth.