2025 NHL Draft Top Undrafted OHL Talent

Each year, talented players fall through the cracks of the NHL Draft for a variety of reasons—whether it’s size concerns, playing on struggling teams, or simply being overshadowed in a deep draft class. However, history has shown that many of these overlooked prospects eventually earn their opportunity in later drafts or as free agent signings. These are my top three (OHL) players who went undrafted in 2025 but are strong candidates to still be selected or signed in the near future:

⸻

Lev Katzin – C, Guelph Storm / Penn State Commit

It was surprising to see Lev Katzin go undrafted despite having a strong resume. He brings a winning pedigree, with championships at the GTHL level with the Toronto Marlboros and international success with Team Canada at both the U17 and U18 levels. He is a skilled, high-motor forward who may have what it takes to prove NHL scouts wrong. 

After starting the season with Green Bay in the USHL, Katzin joined the Guelph Storm, where he tallied an impressive 48 points in 44 games—despite playing on a rebuilding team. He also played a key role for Canada’s U18 squad, putting up 10 points in 7 games en route to a gold medal.

Committed to Penn State for 2025–26, Katzin is headed to a rapidly rising NCAA program that should further elevate his development. If he goes undrafted again, don’t be surprised if he becomes one of the top NCAA free-agent signings in a few years.

⸻

Carson Cameron – RD, Peterborough Petes

Carson Cameron is another player whose draft snub raised some eyebrows. A former first-round OHL pick and standout with the Central Ontario Wolves, Cameron has been logging tough minutes for the Peterborough Petes—a team that has struggled the past two seasons.

The 6’2” right-shot defenseman has been forced to mature quickly, taking on a large role on the Petes’ blue line early in his OHL career. While that responsibility has highlighted areas of his game that still need refinement, it has also accelerated his growth and development. Known for his leadership traits, and two-way potential, Cameron has untapped upside and could be poised for a breakout season in 2025-2026

⸻

Jaeden Nelson – G, Ottawa 67’s

While slightly undersized by modern NHL standards, Jaeden Nelson more than makes up for it with strong technical ability, poise, and confidence in the crease. His journey began in Ottawa before moving to the Toronto Marlboros for his U16 year, where he earned the starting role and helped lead his team to a GTHL championship. He was also part of Team Ontario’s gold medal squad at the Canada Winter Games.

Last season, Nelson backstopped the Navan Grads of the CCHL to a league title, earning an impressive list of accolades: CCHL Best Goaltender, Rookie of the Year, Playoff MVP, and Top Prospect. This past season, he split time with overager Collin MacKenzie on the Ottawa 67’s. Ottawa was another struggling OHL team but Nelson had some solid performances. 

Nelson’s track record of winning and individual success at every level suggests he’s on the right trajectory to become a professional goaltender. With continued progression, he could attract serious attention in the 2026 draft or as a future free agent signing once his junior career is complete.