How Five Of The NHL's Next Impact Players Look Late In The Season

As the season winds down, NHL prospects are getting a chance to perform in the spotlight. Whether they joined their NHL club after their season ended elsewhere, or they earned a call-up, prospects are getting a chance to adjust to the pace in the big leagues. Some of them already have to carry high expectations from fans and experts, but what's most important is proving they deserve to be part of the puzzle as their team pursues the Stanley Cup.

These five players have already made a strong impact on the team with the season drawing to a close. Here's what their performances mean for the future. Cole Hutson, D, Washington Capitals Not only are there now two Hutson brothers in the NHL right now, but neither Lane Hutson nor Cole Hutson was a first-round draft pick.

It's crazy to think that teams made the same mistake twice in a two-year span. Cole Huston, drafted 43rd overall in 2024, already looks like a pain for opponents to deal with through 11 games with the Washington Capitals . The 19-year-old has three goals and eight points in that span.

In short order, Hutson has already gained the confidence of the Capitals coaching staff to be on the second power-play unit during a playoff push. He's also seen increased minutes in April, averaging 18:37 of ice time through four games. It might not be long before Hutson takes Jakob Chychrun's spot on the first power-play unit, and he possesses the tools to be just as dynamic as his older brother, Lane.