A year after the 2024 NHL Draft, the top picks are already making headlines. While Macklin Celebrini was expected to shine, several other young players have also shown huge progress this season. These rising stars are now pushing to break into the NHL and earn bigger roles with their teams.
Let’s take a look at how prospects like Zayne Parekh, Berkly Catton, Cayden Lindstrom, and Carter Yakemchuk performed during the 2024-25 season and what’s next for them.
Zayne Parekh – A Historic Season with More to Come
Zayne Parekh had an outstanding season after being picked 9th overall by the Calgary Flames. Playing with the Saginaw Spirit, he made history by becoming only the second defenseman in OHL history (after Bobby Orr) to score 30+ goals in multiple seasons. Parekh also led all CHL defensemen with 107 points this season.
His NHL debut came on April 17, where he scored a goal for the Flames against the Los Angeles Kings. Parekh is known for his smart play in the offensive zone. He doesn’t rely on flashy moves — instead, he creates space to pass or shoot, making him look more like a fourth forward.
While his defensive skills were a concern earlier, he has worked hard to improve that part of his game. He’s now more physical and responsible in his own zone. If he continues on this path, Parekh has a solid shot at making the Flames’ roster next season and eventually becoming a power-play quarterback.
Berkly Catton – A Playmaker Ready for the Next Step
Berkly Catton was drafted 8th overall by the Seattle Kraken and had another fantastic season with the Spokane Chiefs. Known for his creativity, passing, and effortless skating, Catton scored 54 goals and tallied 116 points in his draft year. In 2024-25, he followed that up with 109 points in just 57 games.
A key moment came when the Chiefs acquired Andrew Cristall from the Kelowna Rockets. Catton and Cristall clicked instantly, combining for 23 points in their first three games together. Cristall led the WHL with 132 points, while Catton was third.
Catton’s performance in the WHL playoffs was historic. He became the first WHL player in 25 years to score 40 points in a single playoff run. Although his team lost in the final to Medicine Hat, Catton proved he’s ready to fight for an NHL spot with the Kraken this fall.
Cayden Lindstrom – Power Forward with Something to Prove
Cayden Lindstrom, picked 4th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets, had a tough season due to a back injury. He only played 32 games in his draft year and missed most of the 2024-25 season after surgery. But he returned during the WHL finals and managed to put up four points in four games.
When healthy, Lindstrom is a true power forward — strong, fast, and tough to play against. Standing at 6’4” and 214 pounds, he moves quickly and uses his size to protect the puck and outplay defenders.
Next season will be crucial for Lindstrom as he moves to the NCAA level. After injury setbacks, he’ll need to show he’s back to full strength and capable of progressing against tougher competition.
Carter Yakemchuk – A Season of Missed Potential
Drafted by the Ottawa Senators in 2024, Carter Yakemchuk came with high expectations. With a big frame and great offensive skills, he was seen as a future top-four defenseman. But his 2024-25 season didn’t go as hoped.
After scoring 30 goals and 71 points in his draft year, Yakemchuk’s production dropped to 17 goals and 49 points in 56 games this season. Considering he was older and playing a lead role on one of the WHL’s top scoring teams, many fans expected more.
Even though his talent is clear, Yakemchuk needs to work on his skating and defense. Development takes time, and not every season will be perfect. But with the right support and patience, he can still become an important player for the Senators.
The NHL journey is never easy, and for these young prospects, it’s all about growth. Zayne Parekh is proving he could be a future star on the Flames’ blue line. Berkly Catton continues to dazzle as a playmaker and is getting closer to the NHL. Cayden Lindstrom has something to prove after injury but has the tools to succeed. Meanwhile, Carter Yakemchuk still has lots of potential, but he’ll need to bounce back strong next season.
As the 2025-26 season nears, all eyes will be on these young stars as they look to turn promise into performance and take the next big step in their hockey careers.
