Let’s begin with another trade. The 108th pick the Bruins acquired from the Montreal Canadiens was then sent to the Tampa Bay Lightning for a fourth-round pick at the 2026 Draft.
Their next pick was in the fifth round, 133rd overall and they selected center Cole Chandler from Shawinigan of the QMJHL.
Growing up in Bedford, Nova Scotia, a community with a strong hockey culture, Cole Chandler was immersed in the sport from an early age.
Chandler began his hockey journey with the Bedford Blues minor hockey program, where he quickly stood out for his skill and hockey sense. His early performances earned him a spot with the Dartmouth Steele Subaru U18 team in the Nova Scotia Major Midget Hockey League (NSMMHL), where he continued to impress. During the 2022–23 season, he posted 51 points in 31 games, including 26 goals, and added five points in seven playoff games. His ability to produce offensively while maintaining a strong two-way presence made him a standout in the league.
In 2023, Chandler was selected 16th overall by the Shawinigan Cataractes in the QMJHL Entry Draft. The move to major junior hockey marked a significant step in his development, and he adapted quickly to the faster pace and higher level of competition. During the 2024–25 season, Chandler played a key role for Shawinigan, contributing consistently at both ends of the ice. His offensive production, combined with his defensive responsibility, earned him recognition from NHL scouts and a spot on Central Scouting’s list of North American skaters.
Chandler’s game is built around intelligence, effort, and versatility. At 6-foot-2 and 176 pounds, he has the size to compete physically, but it’s his attention to detail and hockey IQ that set him apart. He’s a left-shot center who can play in all situations—power play, penalty kill, and even strength—and he’s often tasked with shutting down opposing top lines while still contributing offensively.
One of Chandler’s most notable strengths is his ability to engage with the puck. He has a knack for reading plays and anticipating where the puck will be, allowing him to intercept passes, win puck battles, and transition quickly from defense to offense. His improved skating has been a major factor in this area; he’s become more explosive in his first few strides and more agile in tight spaces, which helps him evade pressure and create time for plays to develop.
Offensively, Chandler is more of a playmaker than a pure goal scorer. He has good vision and makes smart, timely passes that set up teammates in high-danger areas. While he’s capable of finishing plays himself—thanks to a quick release and accurate wrist shot—his primary value lies in his ability to drive possession and create scoring opportunities. He’s particularly effective below the goal line and in the corners, where he uses his body to protect the puck and extend offensive zone time.
Defensively, Chandler is reliable and disciplined. He backchecks hard, maintains strong positioning, and communicates well with his linemates. He’s not the flashiest player in his own zone, but he’s effective—clearing pucks, blocking shots, and winning faceoffs in key moments. His coaches trust him in late-game situations, and he’s often deployed to protect leads or kill penalties.
That said, there are areas of his game that still need refinement. While his skating has improved, he can continue to work on his top-end speed and acceleration to become more dynamic in transition. Additionally, his offensive consistency can fluctuate—there are stretches where he dominates shifts, followed by quieter games where he’s less noticeable. Developing a more assertive mindset and learning to impose himself on games more regularly will be key to unlocking his full potential.
Chandler’s intangibles are another reason why scouts like him. He’s known for his work ethic, leadership qualities, and coachability. Teammates describe him as focused and driven, someone who leads by example and elevates the play of those around him. These traits, combined with his on-ice versatility, make him a valuable asset for any team looking to build a strong, balanced roster.
Heading into the 2025 NHL Draft, Chandler was ranked 172nd among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting. While that ranking placed him outside the top tier of prospects, his steady development and well-rounded game made him an intriguing mid-to-late round option. Teams looking for a dependable, two-way center with leadership potential and room to grow saw Chandler as a worthwhile investment.
As of the 2024–25 season, Chandler continues to develop with Shawinigan, logging important minutes and gaining experience in high-pressure situations. His trajectory suggests that he could become a reliable bottom-six NHL forward with the potential to move up the lineup if his offensive game continues to evolve. Whether he remains in junior for another season or transitions to the professional ranks will depend on his continued growth and the needs of the organization that drafts him.
Dom - Hockey 