Justin Carbonneau – 2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile

Carbonneau uses his speed to pressure opposing defenders on the rush, forcing them to back off in the neutral zone and create space. He often cuts to the middle to generate high-danger chances for himself and his linemates. While his skating stride could be more compact and efficient, he always reaches his destination on time.

He is known for his ability to absorb and deliver hits, averaging a hit per game and taking a hit himself. He isn’t afraid to crash the net and compete for loose pucks, averaging 2.7 recoveries of loose pucks after shots per game. Although he is strong on his stick, he also possesses soft hands that allow him to protect the puck and make plays. Carbonneau is always active, positioning himself to create passing and shooting lanes, making him a constant scoring threat even away from the puck.

He drives offensive play in transition with impressive underlying metrics and has emerged as one of the league’s most lethal shooters and prolific goal-scorers. In 44 games this season with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada in the QMJHL, he has scored 31 goals and 61 points. Carbonneau’s shot is a standout skill, characterized by a quick release and high precision. He generates five grade “A” scoring chances per game and consistently creates opportunities from both his forehand and backhand. His curl-and-drag snapshot is a weapon, even when a defender is leaning on him from behind.

Other THW Draft Profiles

Justin Carbonneau – NHL Draft Projection

Carbonneau has the potential to be a top-six forward who can score. His shooting skills and offensive instincts make him a valuable asset on the power play. At the same time, his physicality and strong skating enable him to excel in transition and along the boards. Outside of Porter Martone and, for some, Cameron Schmidt, Carbonneau is one of the best right-wing draft-eligible players this year, and he is likely to be drafted in the 10-20 range.

Quotables

His skating stride could be a little more compact and efficient, but he gets to where he needs to go on time. He’s strong on his stick, yet still has soft hands to protect pucks and make plays. – Sam Cosentino, Sportsnet 

Carbonneau’s game has a lot of high-end attributes. Great skater? Check. Excellent shot release? Absolutely. A bit of an edge, at times? You bet. Carbonneau loves to make big, flashy, high-end plays and often comes out on the right side of it. – Steven Ellis, Daily Faceoff

Carbonneau is a crafty playmaker with outstanding puck touch. He makes plays in tight quarters, over opponents’ sticks, and through their skates. He consistently plays to his identity offensively. His battle game/secondary pushback is improving. – Jason Bukala, Sportsnet

Strengths

Under Construction/Improvements to Make

NHL Potential 

Carbonneau is a skilled winger with the potential to excel professionally. His scoring ability and offensive instincts are already at an NHL-caliber level. With improvements to his physical game and decision-making, his style of play draws strong comparisons to Brock Boeser of the Vancouver Canucks. A right-shot winger, he possesses a powerful shot, deceptive puck-handling skills, and the ability to make a significant offensive impact in a top-six role.

Risk-Reward Analysis

Risk – 3.5/5, Reward – 4.5/5

Fantasy Hockey Potential

Offense – 7.5/10, Defence – 7/10

Interviews/Links

TSN: The Next Generation: Justin Carbonneau

Justin Carbonneau Stats

Videos