5 NHL Rookies Who Will SHOCK Everyone This Season

5 NHL Rookies Who Will SHOCK Everyone This Season
Every NHL season brings a new wave of talent, but this year feels different. The hype surrounding the 2025–26 rookie class is unreal. Fantasy hockey managers are already circling their names, analysts are debating who will make the biggest splash, and fans are waiting to see who becomes the next household superstar. But here’s the thing: five rookies stand above the rest.

They come from different backgrounds, play different positions, and bring completely different skill sets. Yet they all have one thing in common: they’re about to change the NHL landscape. From hidden gems who could surprise everyone, to can’t-miss prospects carrying the weight of entire franchises, this year’s rookie race is stacked.

And while all five of these names deserve your attention, one in particular stands out as my pick for the Calder Trophy — the NHL’s rookie of the year. Who is it? You’ll have to stick around until the end. But here’s a hint: he’s already being called one of the most electrifying young forwards we’ve seen in a long time.

So let’s count down the five NHL rookies you need to watch this season — and find out who could define the future of the league.