Making The Case: Ethan Belchetz
Belchetz has 40-goal upside and checks every box the Rangers prioritize. But a broken clavicle and a defense-heavy draft class would make using the fifth pick on him a real gamble.
Another top winger in the second tier of this draft class, Ethan Belchetz could turn into a prolific power forward who can flirt with 40 goals season. But a late season injury has taken a toll on his draft stock.
In a similar situation as Oscar Hemming, Belchetz is a player that, by definition, would be a perfect New York Ranger. This is a player that Corey Pronman of The Athletic has compared to Alaksai Protas, but who reminds me of a bit more physical Rick Nash. While there is a ton to like about Belchetz that makes him an intriguing option for the Rangers, he's far from a perfect player as—and you'll never guess it—he isn't the greatest skater.
Player Information
Ranking ninth on NHL Central Scouting's final list of North American skaters, Ethan Belchetz was first featured here in our February edition of the Draft Radar Scouting Report. In 57 games played with the Windsor Spitfires in the OHL, Belchetz collected 34 goals and 25 assists for a total of 59 points. A majority of that came from playing on a line with current New York Rangers prospect Liam Greentree. The season prior, Belchetz had 38 points in 56 games.
A player some have referred to as a wrecking ball, Belchetz is a prototypical power forward in the modern day NHL. He commands possession of the puck, scores goals, competes every shift, can make plays, stays calm under pressure, and has top six potential. Belchetz was also a standout at the 2025-26 Hlinka Gretzky Tournament as he registered seven points (four goals, three assists) in just five games played.
