Previewing the Bruins Second Round Draft Options

Today, we will examine possible choices for the Boston Bruins in the second round of the NHL Entry Draft. If you missed round one options, you can find them here.

The Bruins hold two selections in the second round, picking at 51st and 61st overall. Their original 37th pick was traded to the Washington Capitals on February 23, 2023, as part of the deal that brought Garnet Hathaway to Boston.

The Bruins secured the 51st pick from the Edmonton Oilers in the Trent Frederic trade on March 4, 2025, extending the Cam Neely trade tree. The Oilers had originally obtained the selection as compensation from the St. Louis Blues in the Philip Broberg offer sheet transaction.

The Bruins obtained the 61st pick from the Colorado Avalanche in the Charlie Coyle trade on March 7, 2025. The Avalanche had originally secured the pick from the Carolina Hurricanes in the Mikko Rantanen trade.

I believe the Bruins should use one of their two picks to select a goaltender. Joshua Ravensbergen (Prince George – WHL) stands out as the top available netminder and is projected to be a first-round selection. However, Boston has other viable options to consider as well.

This draft class is challenging to evaluate, with players so closely ranked that different outlets may have entirely different perspectives on how it unfolds. That’s precisely what’s happening across independent scouting services—each offering varied predictions. Every player mentioned could be chosen before the Bruins have a chance, or they might slide down the board. The outcome is simply too unpredictable.

Let’s examine some prospects of interest for the 51st pick. While a few names on this list have the talent to be selected much earlier, they may slide due to specific concerns scouts have about aspects of their game. Additionally, their rankings among independent scouting services vary widely, adding to the uncertainty surrounding their draft position.

51^st Pick

Ethan Czata – Center – Niagara – OHL

Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	+/-
Niagara	OHL	68	21	34	55	72	-9

Czata is an excellent skater with good speed, capable of thriving in any situation. Among the most competitive players in this draft class, he stands out as one of the best defensive forwards. His high-energy style and relentless motor ensure that he never stops working, whether chasing down pucks on offense or shutting down plays defensively. The primary concern with Czata is his offensive production. His output dipped from a point-per-game pace in the first half of the season to just 0.5 points per game in the latter half. Despite this, his skill set makes him a clear NHL prospect. At minimum, he projects as a defensively sound fourth-line player, with the potential to be a strong third-liner who contributes secondary scoring. A safe and reliable pick at this stage.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 49th (N.A. Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 40th

FC Hockey: 64th

Daily Faceoff: 56th

Red Line: 47th

Bob McKenzie: 53rd

Consolidated: 55th

Hockey Sense	Compete	Skating	Physicality	Skills
7.0	8.0	7.0	6.5	5.0

Eddie Genborg – Left Wing – Linkoping HC – J20 Nationell

Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	+/-
Linkoping HC	J20	28	19	15	34	26	18
Linkoping HC	SHL	28	2	0	2	4	-1

He thrives on physicality and relentless pressure, using his strength and energy to wear down opponents shift after shift. With a knack for delivering clean but crushing body checks, he forces rival players to constantly be aware of his presence. His forechecking game is among the best—tenacious and disruptive, often prying the puck loose and setting the tone early. He brings a gritty edge that fuels turnovers and gives his team momentum. You’ll find him battling in the dirty areas, agitating after the whistle, and making life uncomfortable for anyone in his path. Though he’s not a flashy puck-handler, his game complements skill players by creating room and winning the tough battles. His fearlessness in crashing the net and finding greasy goals adds another dimension. Skating is an issue but if he can continue to refine his skating, he could carve out a long-term role on a fourth line..

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 6^th (EU Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 99^th

FC Hockey: 71^st

Daily Faceoff: 48^th

Red Line: 55^th

Bob McKenzie: 42^nd

Consolidated: 45th

Hockey Sense	Compete	Skating	Physicality	Skills
5.0	9.0	5.0	7.0	5.0

Jack Ivankovic – Goaltender – Brampton Steelheads – OHL

Team	League	GP	W	L	OL	GAA	SV%
Brampton	OHL	43	25	12	5	3.05	.903

Ivankovic’s draft position may seem high to some, but independent scouting services consistently rank him at this level or even higher. If the Bruins are confident that he’s their choice, they will likely need to use this pick to secure him, if he’s still available. His biggest drawback is his size, which is below the typical standard for today’s NHL goaltenders. However, his skating is exceptional, and he could very well be the best stick-handling goalie in the draft. His athleticism, glove hand, and both mental and technical composure set him apart. His primary challenges lie in rebound control and maintaining consistency. While his performance at the Under-18 tournament helped address some concerns about consistency, it’s crucial to assess his entire body of work.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 4th (N.A. Goalies)

McKeen’s Hockey: 51st

FC Hockey: 50th

Daily Faceoff: 42nd

Red Line: 46th

Bob McKenzie: 48th

Consolidated: 50th

Athleticism	Technical	Puck Handling	Rebounds	Skating
8.0	6.0	6.0	5.0	7.0

Ryker Lee – RW – Madison – USHL

Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	+/-
Madison	USHL	58	31	37	68	18	9

Lee boasts a lethal shot, capable of beating goaltenders purely on accuracy. One of the best stickhandlers in the draft, he can navigate tight spaces effortlessly. His offensive production in the USHL was impressive, and his high hockey IQ allows him to dictate the pace of play and set up teammates with precision. However, his defensive game is underdeveloped and requires significant improvement. Not because of lack of ability, but a total lack of effort. Concerns about his skating have become a focal point—potentially influenced by a recent growth spurt—but it remains an area that needs work. If he happens to fall to this pick (and I am not sure he will – some have him ranked in the first round despite the flaws) and you’re prioritizing offense, he’s a player who deserves serious consideration. But you have to be confident in your ability to address the defensive effort and skating concerns.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 28th (N.A. Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 42nd

FC Hockey: 39th

Daily Faceoff: 38th

Red Line: 42nd

Bob McKenzie: 58th

Consolidated: 38th

Hockey Sense	Compete	Skating	Physicality	Skills
7.0	5.0	5.0	5.0	8.0

PICKED IN FIRST ROUND (26TH) BY NASHVILLE

Mason West – Center – Fargo – USHL

Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	+/-
Fargo	USHL	10	1	8	9	6	-1

West is a highly athletic player who faced a tough decision between hockey and football. Ultimately, he chose hockey, though reports suggest he intends to finish his senior football season, which might not sit well with some in the NHL. Standing at 6’6” and weighing 220 pounds, he possesses an imposing frame but moves with impressive fluidity. His speed is solid, but what really stands out is his unexpected agility on skates. While he has a strong shot, his playmaking abilities—sharp vision and precise passing—make him a greater asset as a facilitator. He excels in maintaining possession deep in the offensive zone and often comes out on top in battles along the boards. However, consistency remains a challenge, as he can go unnoticed for stretches. As one of the youngest players in his draft class, he has ample time to refine his game and develop further. Fear that he may change his mind and chose a football career could cause him to slip.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 27th (N.A. Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 49th

FC Hockey: 56th

Daily Faceoff: 55th

Red Line: 75th

Bob McKenzie: 59th

Consolidated: 61st

Hockey Sense	Compete	Skating	Physicality	Skills
6.0	6.0	7.5	6.0	6.0

PICKED IN FIRST ROUND (29TH) BY CHICAGO.

Let’s examine some potential candidates for the Bruins’ second pick in the second round. If they opt not to select a goaltender at No. 51, there are two intriguing options here that merit consideration. I’ve consistently emphasized the importance of adding another goaltender to the prospect pool, and this could be an ideal opportunity to secure a meaningful addition. However, I am not limiting it to just goaltenders.

61^st pick

Pyotr Andreyanov – Goaltender – Krasnaya – MHL

Team	League	GP	W	L	OL	GAA	SV%
CSKA	MHL	37	23	6	6	1.75	.942

Andreyanov has made noticeable strides in his development over the past few seasons, though he still falls on the smaller side by NHL standards (however, probably needs to lose some weight). Widely regarded as the top international goaltender in this year’s draft, he showcases a unique blend of styles, balancing butterfly technique with elements of classic stand-up goaltending. His fundamentals are strong, his athleticism exceptional, and he remains one of the most composed netminders in his class. With sharp anticipation and excellent positional awareness, he rarely finds himself out of place. Even when traffic obstructs his vision, he holds his ground remarkably well. If Jack Edwards were on the call, you’d often hear him say, “Andreyanov with the positional save!” Some believe he can challenge Ravensbergen as the top goalie, but I can’t get there. But he is probably the second-best goaltender in the draft class.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 1st (EU Goalies)

McKeen’s Hockey: 64th

FC Hockey: 76th

Daily Faceoff: 58th

Red Line: 36th

Bob McKenzie: 71st

Consolidated: 62nd

Athleticism	Technical	Positioning	Rebounds	Skating
7.5	7.5	7.5	7.0	7.5

PICKED IN FIRST ROUND (20TH) BY COLUMBUS

Kristian Epperson – LW – Saginaw – OHL

Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	+/-
Saginaw	OHL	58	27	53	80	87	45

Epperson went undrafted last season, leaving uncertainty about where he should be selected in this year’s draft. Some scouts have questioned whether his success was largely due to playing alongside Michael Misa. However, his energetic playing style is undeniable. While not a primary play driver, he excels as a playmaker on the wing, consistently elevating his teammates’ performances. His skating is strong, featuring impressive speed, and he isn’t afraid to battle in the tough areas of the ice. At times, his intensity can push boundaries. He’s an excellent forechecker and is always finding open ice to make himself available for a pass or on the breakout. Though his defensive play was shaky at the start of the season, he showed significant improvement by its conclusion. There are safer picks in this range, but the Bruins should have a conversation about Epperson. We do know that the Bruins like to take chances on draft re-entry players and Epperson may just be the best one available.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 28th (N.A. Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 55th

FC Hockey: 39th

Daily Faceoff: 38th

Red Line: 76th

Bob McKenzie: 58th

Consolidated: 38th

Hockey Sense	Compete	Skating	Physicality	Skills
7.5	7.5	6.0	6.0	6.5

Conrad Fondrk – Center -USNTDP – USHL

Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	+/-
NTDP	USHL	40	13	14	27	6	-1
NTDP U18	USHL	15	6	6	12	0	+7

Conrad Fondrk is a highly skilled forward whose season was derailed by a significant injury, cutting short what had briefly been an encouraging offensive stretch. Known for his slick hands, accurate shot, and straight-line speed, Fondrk flashes dual-threat potential with the puck. Despite those tools, his performance this year was inconsistent—highlighted by concerns over his effort level and limited impact during stretches without the puck. He tends to shy away from the hard areas of the ice, which has raised questions about his willingness to match his physical tools with a more determined approach. That said, he shows flashes of strong defensive instincts, effective puck protection using his stocky frame, and a motor that allows him to build deceptive speed. His skating is solid, though not explosive, and he can occasionally overhandle the puck trying to do too much himself. While the projection is somewhat unclear, there’s still real upside if he can bring more consistent intensity and continue his development post-injury.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 45th (N.A. Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 69th

FC Hockey: 54th

Daily Faceoff: 55th

Red Line: 99th

Bob McKenzie: 43rd

Consolidated: 54th

Hockey Sense	Compete	Skating	Physicality	Skills
6.0	5.0	5.5	5.5	6.0

Alexei Medvedev – Goaltender – London – OHL

Team	League	GP	W	L	OL	GAA	SV%
London	OHL	34	22	8	2	2.79	.912

Medvedev may be the youngest goaltender in the draft—making the cut by just five days—but he remains my top target among netminders. He has seamlessly blended the elite athleticism typical of Russian goaltenders with the disciplined positioning associated with North American styles. After asking scouts at various levels to find me a flaw in his game, the only concern raised was his lack of experience in high-pressure situations. I disagree—playing in London means facing pressure all season long. While the team brought in a veteran for their Memorial Cup run, Medvedev’s skill set speaks for itself. He possesses elite skating, flawless movement, excellent hands, and remarkable recovery ability. More importantly, he has the drive and determination to keep refining his game.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 28th (N.A. Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 42nd

FC Hockey: 39th

Daily Faceoff: 38th

Red Line: 42^nd

Bob McKenzie: 58th

Consolidated: 38th

Athleticism	Technical	Positioning	Rebounds	Skating
7.0	7.0	7.5	6.0	7.0

Luka Radivojevic – RD – Muskegon – USHL

Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	+/-
Madison	USHL	38	3	19	22	39	13

Radivojevic is a highly skilled, offensively minded defenseman with sharp hockey instincts and soft hands, making him a dangerous playmaker from the blueline. He activates in the o-zone using quick changes in direction and deceptive mobility to create space and shooting lanes. He excels in transition, delivering crisp outlet passes and quarterbacking the power play. His shot is not a weapon and may never be.  Despite his offensive upside, his skating lacks explosiveness, limiting his ability to generate separation. At 5-foot-9, he struggles against larger opponents raising concerns about his ability to handle NHL-level physicality. His aggressiveness can leave him exposed defensively, and while he competes well in front of the net, his overall defensive impact remains a question mark. So to is his size at 5’9”.

Where he is ranked:

NHL Central Scouting: 188th (N.A. Skaters)

McKeen’s Hockey: 83rd

FC Hockey: 33rd

Daily Faceoff: 71st

Red Line: 40th

Consolidated: 58th

Hockey Sense	Compete	Skating	Physicality	Skills
6.5	5.0	6.5	5.0	6.0