The NHL’s Next Big Stars: 5 Forwards to Watch Out For in the Upcoming Season

The countdown to the NHL season may still be on, but the buzz surrounding the rookie class is already at an all-time high. With a mix of promising players who showed flashes of brilliance last season and those who dominated in the AHL, junior leagues, or NCAA, these five forwards are poised to make a major impact and compete for the title of best rookie this year.

Two standout names from the 2025 NHL Draft class, Michael Misa of the San Jose Sharks and James Hagens of the Boston Bruins, are already generating a lot of excitement and could potentially make the jump straight to the NHL.

Misa, a highly skilled and dynamic forward, has been turning heads with his impressive performances in the AHL and is expected to make a strong case for a spot on the Sharks’ roster. Meanwhile, Hagens, known for his speed and playmaking abilities, has been making waves in the junior leagues and could make an immediate impact for the Bruins.

But these two are not the only ones to watch out for. With a mix of talent, determination, and potential, these five forwards are set to dominate the conversation and make a name for themselves in the upcoming NHL season. Keep an eye out for these rising stars as they make their mark on the ice.  

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