NCAA Standouts Could Make History at 2024 NHL Draft
The 2024 NHL Scouting Combine is underway, offering NHL teams a chance to assess the top prospects eligible for the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft. Among these prospects are three standout players from NCAA Division I men’s hockey who could potentially make history by being selected among the top four picks in an NHL Draft.
Macklin Celebrini from Boston University, Arytom Levshunov from Michigan State University, and Zeev Buium from the University of Denver are drawing attention at the combine. Celebrini, the youngest player in NCAA Division I men’s hockey this season at 17 years old, was ranked No. 1 in NHL Central Scouting’s final ranking of North American skaters. Levshunov, the third youngest, ranked No. 2, while Buium, the second youngest, was ranked No. 4.
The trio’s success in college hockey has been remarkable, with Celebrini winning the Hobey Baker Award, Levshunov impressing as a defenseman, and Buium playing a key role in Denver’s national championship win. Their potential to be selected among the top picks is generating excitement among NHL teams and fans alike.
The last time three college players were chosen among the top five picks was in the 2021 NHL Draft, highlighting the significance of this potential achievement. As the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on these talented NCAA standouts and their journey to the NHL.
It remains to be seen if Celebrini, Levshunov, and Buium will indeed make history at the 2024 NHL Draft, but their presence at the combine and their accomplishments in college hockey have already solidified their status as top prospects to watch out for.