“Verhoeff jumped from the WHL to the NCAA this year, a move that was well-received by the scouting world. He was productive while playing anywhere in the 16-20 minute range on one of the top teams in the country – a tough gig for any defenseman. Verhoeff doesn’t have many bad games – the floor is still quite solid. He takes up a ton of space at 6-foot-4 and is willing to hit you hard while also making many high-end passes in the offensive zone. 

Scouts wish he’d add a bit more speed to be a true top-pairing defender, though, but there’s time for him to figure that out. I’ll also add this: yeah, his Frozen Four performance wasn’t great. But the ceiling is still very, very high for such a young dude. I commend him for going to college early, and I think he’ll be much more comfortable next year.”

“The overall body of work Verhoeff showed this season speaks to him being a surefire top-five pick in June. Scouts do have some concerns about his skating, and he makes some questionable decisions at times, but considering he played a key role for a Frozen Four NCAA team at 17 years old speaks volumes about his NHL potential.  

The entire package he offers is highly sought-after in the scouting world, especially knowing how much room he has for refinement. Of note, Verhoeff’s 20 points this season are comparable to the point production Zach Werenski and Noah Hanifin had during their 17-year-old collegiate seasons over a decade ago. Unlike three of the four players ahead of him on this list, Verhoeff is eligible to represent Canada at the world U18s. “

“Verhoeff has, essentially, the most coveted profile in the sport. He’s a 6-4, RHD who skates very well and is born late in the draft cohort. Verhoeff is also a player who can be relied upon heavily on either side of the puck. Defensively, Verhoeff has strong stick details, closes gaps efficiently, and plays proactively and physically, whether that be in the corners, in front of his net, or standing up at both bluelines. He’s also poised under pressure and makes plenty of slick retrievals and outlet plays in the defensive zone.

Offensively, Verhoeff can lead the rush with his feet or use his playmaking ability to advance the puck. He walks the line confidently, handles the puck well (occasionally flashing high-end skill) and, of course, has a bullet of a shot from the point. In many other years, Verhoeff would rightfully be seen as the gem of the class. Instead, he’ll just have another chance to prove his worth.”