Prospects To Watch - USHL Fall Classic
5 forwards to watch this week(end) at the USHL Fall Classic
Cole McKinney - ‘07 Forward - USNTDP
The Michigan commit can do so many things right, retaining possession, playmaking, 200 ft type of player. McKinney’s offensive output will be the area to watch, as he has the brain to dangle out of high congestion areas, a brain that can process at high speed. Not the biggest center but very good skater and strong / balanced. His finishing touch is there, and will be a driver for this year’s 18s team.
Adam Bednak - ‘07 Forward - Youngstown Phantoms
Fresh off breaking the Hlinka Gretzky all time points record this summer, Bednak will be a top 10 pick in the 2025 draft, arguably one of the top players out of the USHL. He started his USHL career yesterday with 2 assists in Youngstown opening day win. His playmaking ability is second to none, with a feel for how to break down pressure and get pucks to open players, or he can do it himself. His shot isn’t lethal but can beat goaltenders, and he has the in tight skating ability. Can he develop the power skating to be more dynamic ? An area to watch out for. Bednak was already busy in preseason, 9 pts in 3 games (1G 8A), leading all players in points.
Benjamin Kevan - Forward - Des Moines Buccaneers
With already a USHL season under his belt, look for Kevan to take another step this season for the Bucs. An Arizona State commit, Kevan was great at US U17 camp and the Hlinka Gretzky tournament, competes and mobility with a strong 6’0 frame. He gets to right areas at the right time, and will look to take another step offensively after putting up 57 points in 59 games as Des Moines just missed the playoffs. Kevan was a USHL All Rookie Team nominee in 23-24, leading all rookies in points on the season.
Lev Katzin - ‘07 Forward - Green Bay Gamblers
Katzin had to adjust to the USHL last season after making the jump from the GTHL with the Toronto Marlboros. A gifted offensive player at 16s, Katzin found his way in 23-24 with 33 pts (10G 23A) in 57 regular season games + 2G 1A in 8 playoff games. Still slightly undersized at 5’8”, the Harvard commit’s offensive touch and decision making is still there, with the skating ability to put himself in successful situations.
Zachary Morin - ‘07 Forward - Youngstown Phantoms
Morin jumped directly from U15’s to the USHL last year, registering just 19 points in 61 games. The Boston University commit has the size and skill to be effective in and around the net, as well as attacking plays or off the rush, quick decisions. Entering his draft year, Morin will most likely see a jump in offensive production, a (very slightly) under the radar draft prospect to keep an eye on. Highlights from his U15 season with Little Caesars below.
