HIGH AND WIDE HOCKEY Articles Caleb Desnoyers: QMJHL Standout & Rising Star in the 2025 NHL Draft Class

Caleb Desnoyers: QMJHL Standout & Rising Star in the 2025 NHL Draft Class


If you’re following the top prospects for the 2025 NHL Draft, one name quickly rising up draft boards is Caleb Desnoyers — a standout forward from the QMJHL’s Moncton Wildcats. Known for his two-way intelligence, elite faceoff ability, and reliable production, Desnoyers has earned a reputation as one of the most complete players in this year’s draft class.

As NHL scouts focus on high-ceiling forwards who can make an impact in all situations, Desnoyers is checking every box.

 Caleb Desnoyers 2024–25 Season Stats (QMJHL)

In the 2024–25 QMJHL season, Caleb Desnoyers posted eye-catching numbers with the Moncton Wildcats:

  • Games Played: 56

  • Goals: 35

  • Assists: 49

  • Points: 84

  • Faceoff Win Rate: ~69%

Desnoyers led Moncton in scoring and was consistently deployed in high-leverage situations: even-strength, power play, and penalty kill. He also held the primary shutdown role, facing top offensive matchups night after night.

Scouting Report: What Makes Caleb Desnoyers an NHL-Caliber Prospect?

  • Elite Hockey IQ

Caleb Desnoyers plays a cerebral game. His anticipation, spatial awareness, and decision-making are NHL-ready traits. He’s rarely out of position and supports the puck with purpose in all three zones.

  • Faceoff Dominance

Desnoyers was dominant in the face-off circle, winning close to 70% of his draws — a skill that immediately translates to the NHL level and increases his value as a center.

  • Balanced Offense

He’s not just a playmaker or a scorer — he’s both. Desnoyers has soft hands, great vision, and precise timing, whether setting up teammates or finishing off plays in tight areas.

  • Reliable Skating

While he may not possess blazing speed, Desnoyers is a smooth skater with excellent edge-work, balance, and control — particularly in traffic and during zone entries.

  • Defensive Awareness

His defensive play is polished beyond his years. He backchecks consistently, supports the breakout, and communicates well on the ice. Coaches trust him in critical moments — and that trust is earned.

 NHL Comparables for Caleb Desnoyers

Desnoyers’ blend of offense and defensive accountability evokes comparisons to current and former NHL stars:

  • Patrice Bergeron – For his elite hockey IQ, faceoff ability, and two-way responsibility.

  • Bo Horvat – A reliable top-six center who contributes in every situation.

  • Ryan O’Reilly – Leadership, structure, and quiet effectiveness on both ends of the ice.

Draft Outlook for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft

Heading into the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Caleb Desnoyers is widely projected as a top-10 pick. Scouts are praising not only his current production but his translatable NHL tools: hockey sense, versatility, and high compete level.

Desnoyers isn’t just a “safe” pick — he’s a smart one. He profiles as a future top-six NHL center, capable of anchoring a matchup line or producing on special teams.

Teams in need of a strong two-way forward — especially those looking to solidify their center depth — should have Desnoyers at the top of their boards.

Final Take: Why Caleb Desnoyers Is a First-Round Talent

Caleb Desnoyers is everything NHL teams value: dependable, intelligent, and productive. He brings leadership traits, elite hockey sense, and a well-rounded game that can grow into a core piece for a contending franchise.

If you’re a fan or scout watching the 2025 NHL Draft, keep a close eye on Desnoyers. He might not come with highlight-reel flash, but he’ll win you games — and maybe even playoff series.


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