A ranking reshuffle
The Mile High Hockey Top 25 Under 25 list, released in September 2026, places Nikita Prishchepov at No. 8, a modest slip from his previous No. 7 slot.
Selected in the seventh round of the 2024 draft, the Colorado‑born forward had been touted as nearly ready for the NHL two seasons ago, but his 2025‑26 campaign with the Colorado Eagles yielded just three goals and nine assists in 22 games, while his lone NHL stint comprised ten appearances without a point.
What stands out is his defensive tenacity; coaches have praised his rigidity and willingness to support teammates, traits that align closely with the Avalanche’s system.
A panel member, Brennan Vogt, who closely followed the Eagles, ranked Prishchepov outside the top 25, underscoring the gap between his defensive contributions and offensive production.
Looking ahead
After a recovery period from injury, the 20‑year‑old could emerge as a dark‑horse candidate for the opening night roster in 2026‑27, a scenario that has the front office watching his development closely.