A Draft‑Year Breakout
Chase Reid, a 17‑year‑old from Chesterfield, Michigan, first caught the attention of scouts when he was dismissed by the Waterloo Black Hawks before the start of the season. Rather than stall, he seized the opportunity to join the Soo Greyhounds, where his offensive flair and defensive reliability quickly made him a cornerstone of the roster.
In his rookie campaign with the Greyhounds he logged nearly 30 minutes per game as the team’s No. 1 defenseman, registering 40 points in 39 appearances and posting a team‑leading plus‑minus of +27. His physical presence, combined with a knack for transition play, allowed him to control the pace of games and generate scoring chances.
The Making of an Elite Defenseman
Coaches have repeatedly praised his skating, labeling him an elite mover who can 'run an edge' to accelerate explosively. That skill set earned him the second‑best skater spot in the 2025‑26 OHL Western Conference coaches poll, a testament to the hours he has invested in perfecting his stride.
The accolades extend beyond the ice. Reid was voted the third‑best shooter, the best offensive defenseman and the second‑best defensive defenseman in the same poll, underscoring his well‑rounded impact. His performance also earned him a place on USA Hockey’s World Junior team, where he represented his country in a draft‑year showcase.
Scouting Praise and Future Outlook
All of this has propelled him to No. 2 on NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings for the 2026 draft, a position that places him among the most coveted prospects. Analysts point to his blend of size — standing 6‑foot‑2.5 and 195 pounds — and a relentless work ethic as the foundation of his rapid ascent.
Off the rink, Reid credits his family and coaching staff for keeping him grounded. Hailing from an athletic household, he has balanced competition with academic preparation, including collaboration with Michigan State’s strength and sports science team to fine‑tune his physical development.
Looking ahead, Reid’s preparation continues to focus on refining his stick work and physical game while maintaining the composure that has defined his career. As the draft approaches, his story serves as a reminder that perseverance, talent and support can combine to reshape a young athlete’s destiny.