In the 2025 NHL playoffs, a handful of rookies have emerged as unexpected difference-makers across the league. While much of the attention has centered on veteran stars and the three Calder Trophy finalists—Macklin Celebrini, Lane Hutson, and Dustin Wolf—only Hutson made the postseason, and his Canadiens bowed out early. Still, several lesser-known first-year players are making headlines of their own. From Carolina to Tampa Bay, these rookies are proving why the postseason can be a proving ground for young talent, stepping up when it matters most and shifting the momentum for their respective teams.
Lane Hutson: Montreal’s Reliable Rookie Defenseman
Anticipated Rookie Spotlight
Montreal Canadiens’ Lane Hutson was undoubtedly the most anticipated rookie entering the playoffs. Although his postseason journey was brief, Hutson’s playoff performance encapsulated why he remains a favorite for the Calder Trophy.
Offensive Contributions
While he didn’t score goals, Hutson directly influenced Montreal’s offense, contributing assists to all Canadiens’ tallies in Game 1 and Game 4.
Heavy Ice Time
His playoff showing reinforced his status as a cornerstone player, averaging over 25 minutes per game—a notable burden for any rookie defender. His substantial ice time dwarfed other rookie defensemen like Minnesota’s Zeev Buium, who averaged less than 14 minutes per night.
Maturity Under Pressure
Though Hutson experienced expected rookie lapses, his consistency under playoff pressure underscored remarkable maturity and potential. He navigated high-stakes moments with poise, rarely appearing overwhelmed despite the intensity of postseason hockey. His ability to maintain composure and execute clean breakouts under forechecking pressure stood out, especially for a first-year defenseman. Despite Montreal’s early exit, Hutson proved he’s ready for NHL stardom—not just in potential, but in his readiness to handle a central role against top-tier competition.
Carolina’s Dynamic Duo: Blake and Stankoven Make Their Mark
Blake’s Rising Stock
The Carolina Hurricanes have long valued depth and versatility, traits epitomized by rookie forwards Jackson Blake and Logan Stankoven.
Blake, a 2021 fourth-round draft selection, is swiftly transforming his draft position into an impressive NHL résumé. After a commendable 17-goal regular-season campaign, Blake solidified his spot in Carolina’s top six during the NHL playoffs. His best moments came in the decisive games against the Devils, scoring a critical goal in Game 5 and adding two assists in Game 4. His playoff emergence wasn’t surprising given his progressive growth throughout the season. Blake now appears primed to secure a permanent role among Carolina’s offensive leaders.
Stankoven’s Grit and Spark
Complementing Blake, Logan Stankoven offers grit and relentless energy, elements crucial in playoff hockey. Despite uneven stretches during the regular season, Stankoven seized his playoff opportunity immediately. His two-goal performance in Game 1 against New Jersey helped shift series momentum decisively toward Carolina. Although quieter offensively in subsequent games, his effort never waned.
Stankoven’s third postseason goal—the opening strike in Carolina’s second-round series against Washington—further showcased his timely offensive contributions. Beyond scoring, Stankoven’s aggressive play away from the puck stands out. He battles fiercely, displaying a fearless approach despite physical mismatches. Carolina’s forward depth, significantly bolstered by Stankoven’s consistent effort, positions the Hurricanes as formidable contenders deep into these playoffs.
Jimmy Snuggerud: St. Louis’ Next Offensive Star Emerges Early
Seamless Transition to the NHL
Jimmy Snuggerud might be out of the playoffs, but his impact on the St. Louis Blues resonates strongly. Fresh from an outstanding collegiate season at the University of Minnesota, Snuggerud seamlessly transitioned to NHL competition, posting eight points across 14 combined regular-season and playoff games. His rapid adjustment was evident during his playoff debut, where he tallied four points in seven games against tough postseason opposition.
A Rising Star for the Blues
A featured name on FanDuel’s NHL player watch, Snuggerud’s power-play goal in Game 2 showcased his adaptability and offensive confidence at the professional level. Moreover, Snuggerud impressed with increased responsibilities, averaging nearly 20 minutes per game despite limited NHL exposure beforehand. His poised postseason performance places him firmly in next season’s Calder Trophy conversation, suggesting he’s ready for a starring role with the Blues.
Gage Goncalves: Tampa Bay’s Surprise Contributor
Rising Through the Ranks
Few NHL franchises unearth hidden talent as effectively as the Tampa Bay Lightning. Gage Goncalves, a 2020 second-round pick, exemplifies Tampa’s scouting acumen. Emerging late in the regular season, Goncalves steadily grew his role from minimal minutes to critical playoff responsibilities. Despite Tampa Bay’s early playoff exit against Florida, Goncalves impressed through grit, physical play, and timely contributions. His four points in five playoff contests significantly exceeded regular-season expectations.
Making His Mark in the Postseason
Averaging nearly 17 playoff minutes nightly—markedly more than his regular-season average—Goncalves delivered consistent, high-energy shifts, particularly excelling alongside Anthony Cirelli on Tampa’s grinding third line. While primarily a depth piece, Goncalves demonstrated value, reliability, and a surprising offensive upside, elements crucial in postseason hockey. Tampa may have exited prematurely, but Goncalves left an indelible impression.
The Broader Impact of NHL’s Playoff Rookies
This postseason has spotlighted how rookies can become unexpected difference-makers. While Calder finalists had limited playoff exposure, others—like Lane Hutson, Jimmy Snuggerud, and Gage Goncalves—stepped up under pressure. Carolina’s Jackson Blake and Logan Stankoven also proved how timely rookie contributions can shift a series. Whether providing offensive sparks, defensive stability, or relentless energy, these first-year players have left a lasting impression. As the playoffs continue, their emergence signals promising futures—for both the players and their teams.
