Thank goodness that hockey returns this month. I couldn't stand myself twiddling my thumbs and waiting for the sport to simply return. And yes, it's only preseason. However, the best time of year has returned, with the NFL season coming back as well.
Soon, it'll be our time to shine, hockey fans. We'll have the festivities set until late June, when the Stanley Cup will be handed out. Commence the trash talking and the highlight reel goals because the best time of the year is upon us.
With that comes some noteworthy prospects that have the weight of the world on their shoulders. Some of these names are quickly rising and are looking to continue that ascension. Some need to prove themselves this season to keep their NHL dreams alive. After all, the hockey gods aren't merely giving you a free pass.
So, let's celebrate the fall season quickly coming up on us. This time, we're looking at three prospects that have plenty to prove with training camp looming. You don't want to let your families and friends down, do you?
Who are the three names that come to mind? Which three players could shoot their NHL stock up to the moon like a DOGE coin? Hockey season is nearly upon us, so get your utensils ready. It's time to feast.
1.) Tuomas Uronen
People have lauded Uronen's abilities as a prospect. He scored 38 goals and 52 assists in 63 games with the Kingston Frontenacs last season, dominating in a full amateur season. He also scored eight goals and six assists in international junior competition with Finland's U-20 team (all levels).
The Finnish forward is terrific off the rush and has an incredible hockey sense. He also has solid skills, including playmaking abilities and puck-handling prowess, that would make him a valuable asset.
He might not make the Golden Knights' main roster this season. However, watch for him in the next couple of years. Uronen could find himself a roster spot at his current trajectory.
2.) Matyas Sapovaliv
Last season was underwhelming on many levels for the Czech forward. He scored 11 goals and eight assists in 71 games, a far cry from his stellar OHL campaign in 2023-24. In that season, he scored 19 goals and 43 assists in 54 games with the Saginaw Spirit, winning the Memorial Cup in the process.
Therefore, fans should expect more from the center as he develops. If he wants to become a regular player in the Golden Knights lineup, he must produce more. That means slowing the game down to his pace and making the necessary adjustments.
3.) Jesper Vikman
In the midst of a loaded goaltender room, the Golden Knights prospect is seemingly forgotten. The Swedish netminder was a small part of the Knight Monsters' success in 2024-25. He had a GAA of 3.19 and a save percentage of .897.
Can the Stockholm native make a name for himself during the preseason? Time will tell. But time isn't on his side, either: the goalie is 23 years old and the Golden Knights front office expects more from him.