Logan Hensler 2025 NHL Draft Profile

Hensler’s on-ice production

Transitioning from the US development program to college is no easy task, but Hensler has stood out this season for all the right reasons. He’s shown massive growth in his two-way game, contributing offensively while remaining defensively responsible.

There’s a possibility that Hensler is drafted higher than what the rankings currently place him. Scouts have been impressed with how he’s been using his skill, size, and hockey IQ to grow as a player, resulting in him quickly adjusting to a higher level of hockey, which is an encouraging sight to witness.

Hensler’s strengths

As mentioned, Hensler’s growth has been prominent through his two-way game. He’s become highly effective in transitions and joining the rush, while staying defensively mindful at the same time. He’s also seen acting as a net-front presence and is quite engaging when it comes to board battles.

Hensler’s skating is elite, as it’s known to be one of his strongest attributes. Despite having a big frame, Hensler is a smooth, fast skater with a powerful stride. When it comes to defence, Hensler’s skating allows him to stay on his opponents, challenging and wearing them out effectively.

There’s also Hensler’s attitude and composition on the ice, as he’s known to be quite calm. He often won’t make panic-driven plays; rather, he’s cool and collected when he has possession, while simultaneously generating and reading plays.

Hensler’s areas of improvement

It’s said that one major aspect Hensler needs to focus on is his shot production and volume. While there’s an offensive talent in him, Hensler needs to be more aware when it comes to shot volume and awareness. In other words, he needs to shoot the puck more, as he possesses quite a heavy shot.

Hensler can also be more physically engaged. While he’s active along the boards, he can utilize his body more towards checking to round out his physicality.

There have also been critiques regarding Hensler’s decision-making in some scenarios. He’s seen at times holding on to the puck too long, resulting in turnovers. To improve his game on the blueline, Hensler needs to make quick, reliable decisions, including in high-pressure situations such as during special team chances.

Fit with the Flames

While Hensler could be an option right around where the Calgary Flames pick, the Flames already have a crowded prospect pool on the right side.

Players such as Zayne Parekh, Henry Mews, and Hunter Brzustewicz are all right-shot defenders who are highly thought of by the Flames. Adding another right-shot defenceman into the system would certainly create more competition among these players. I wouldn’t be opposed to the Flames picking Hensler at 18th, for example, but it’s better off to go with the best player available regardless of position.

Hensler’s NHL projection

Whichever team drafts Hensler will be getting a defenceman with huge upside. Assuming his two-way play keeps improving and he becomes more offensively minded, Hensler has top-four and even top-pairing potential.

A common comparison has been Charlie McAvoy. He’s a great skater who’s reliable in all zones of the ice, a quality Hensler possesses strongly.

Summary

Hensler is projected to be a great NHL defenceman. His elite skating, strong two-way game, and attitude give him all the tools he needs to flourish in the big leagues. There are aspects he can improve on, but scouts know what his skill set consists of and are quite fond of him. Don’t be surprised if Hensler’s name gets called earlier on, as many teams will want to take a chance on him.

Risk: 2/5

Reward: 4.5/5

NHL comparables: Charlie McAvoy

NHL projection: Potential top-pair/top-four defenceman

Check out all of The Win Column’s individual player profiles of selected 2025 NHL Draft prospects:

Matthew Schaefer | Michael Misa | James Hagens | Porter Martone | Anton Frondell | Victor Eklund | Roger McQueen | Caleb Desnoyers | Jackson Smith | Jake O’Brien | Carter Bear | Radim Mrtka | Lynden Lakovic | Brady Martin | Justin Carbonneau | Malcolm Spence | Cameron Reid