Rookie Watch: Early Seasons of the Panthers' 2025 Draft Class
The Florida Panthers entered the 2025 draft with a clear eye on talent that could blend skill and grit, and the early returns from their rookie cohort are already painting an encouraging picture. Across continents and competition formats, each prospect is carving out a niche that could translate into meaningful contributions at the NHL level.
Mads Kongsbak Klyvo, a fourth‑round selection, spent the year split between Frölunda HC’s U20 side and the senior SHL roster. In 15 games for the U20 team he posted 14 points, a statistic that placed him among the top Danish prospects at the World Junior tournament, while his SHL appearances hinted at a smooth transition to larger ice surfaces.
Shea Busch, also a fourth‑round pick, became a cornerstone for the Everett Silvertips. He recorded 18 points in just 12 regular‑season games and added 13 more during the playoffs, helping the club capture the WHL Championship and underscoring his ability to elevate his game when the stakes rise.
Shamar Moses, a fifth‑round prospect, logged 18 points over 48 contests with the North Bay Battalion and contributed two points in four playoff outings. His steady offensive output and defensive reliability have positioned him as a player to watch in the pipeline.
Pathways to the NHL
Arvid Drott, the sixth‑round pick, found his stride with Djurgårdens IF’s J20 squad, tallying 25 points in 28 games and adding 12 more in the playoffs. The Swedish forward’s blend of speed and playmaking suggests a promising trajectory toward senior competition.
Brendan Dunphy, a seventh‑round selection, earned a regular spot at the University of Connecticut, where he logged six points, blocked 29 shots and posted a plus‑minus rating of plus six across 37 appearances. His two‑way effort reflects the kind of work ethic the Panthers value.
Yegor Midlak, another seventh‑round prospect, spent 20 games with MHK Spartak Moskva, posting a .909 save percentage and a 3.60 goals‑against average. While the numbers are modest, the experience in a high‑pressure Russian environment adds depth to his development curve.
Looking Ahead
The collective performance of these six players offers the Panthers a rare blend of offensive upside and defensive responsibility. As the organization prepares for the next season, the coaching staff will likely integrate several of these prospects into lineup decisions, using their early‑season momentum to shape a roster that can compete both now and in the years ahead.