Columbus d-man prospect Jackson Smith (14th overall in 2025): Most of the talk surrounding the Penn State University hockey team focused on 2026 first overall pick Gavin McKenna (TOR), who led the Big Ten is scoring (51 points) and set a single-game record with 8 points versus Ohio State University. However, Smith was another high-end prospect having an excellent season for the Nittany Lions. The Calgary native registered 26 points (11G 15A) in 35 games in 2025-26, breaking the program record for most goals in a season by a d-man. At the Blue Jackets’ recent development camp, the 6’4″ blueliner demonstrated the maturity and enhanced defensive accumen of a player developing professional habits. He was joined at the Blue Jackets’ camp by 2026 first-round pick ands forward prospect Oscar Hemming, and the pair of potential future cornerstones formed an immediate bond. Both will return to their respective college programs (Hemming to Boston College) for 2026-27.
Florida d-man prospect Matvei Shuravin (97th overall in 2024): Following a successful career in Russian junior hockey (MHL) and the KHL, Shuravin will move to North America for the 2026-27 season. Signing his entry-level contract with the Panthers in June, Shuravin is projected to start the season with Charlotte of the AHL. The large and mobile d-man developed a reputation as one of the best defenders in the MHL, using his elite skating ability and shut-down abilities to do so. As he continues to mature, his promotion to Florida is looming.
Calgary forward prospect Jonathan Castagna (70th overall in 2023 by ARI/UTA): When preparing to trade for Castagna this past spring, the Flames viewed him on multiple occasions as he was competing for Cornell University during his junior season. What they saw at every viewing was Castagna’s drive, unwavering work ethic, and dedication to the details of the game. The 21-yer-old is projected to begin 2026-27 with the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers, although his on-ice grit and off-ice leadership qualities lend themselves nicely to an in-season call-up.
