We’re just under one month away from the NHL Entry Draft, where the Vancouver Canucks hold their first round pick for the first time since 2023.
For how long? That remains to be seen.
And yet, we continue to push forward as if they will maintain their position and select a young and hopeful prospect with the 15th pick.
With that, we give you our second potential target.
Previous targets:
- Brady Martin
- Carter Bear
- Braeden Cootes
- Justin Carbonneau
- Kashawn Aitcheson
Cole Reschny
Team: Victoria Royals (WHL) | Age: 18 | Position: Centre | Height: 5-foot-10 | Weight: 187 lbs | Shoots: Left | Birthplace: Macklin, Saskatchewan, CAN
Few have enjoyed a higher jump in the rankings than the now former Victoria Royals’ centre, Cole Reschny.
Up nine spots in the Central Scouting rankings, from 34 to 25, the left-shot centre from Macklin, Saskatchewan, enjoyed one of the more potent back halves among all 2025 draftees.
Whether that be a strong playoff run, or stint at the most recent U18’s, helping Team Canada take home gold, he has solidified himself as a strong candidate to fall well within the zone of the Vancouver Canucks’ 15th overall pick.
What makes Reschny so intriguing is his blend of offensive pedigree, marked by high-end vision, with a responsible 200-foot game that should translate quite seamlessly as he climbs the ranks.
In his sophomore season with the WHL’s Victoria Royals, he exploded for 92 points (26 goals, 66 assists) in just 62 games to finish tied for ninth league-wide.
Additionally, he finished within the top 10 for plus/minus, with a career high plus-42 for the year. He followed that up with a strong playoff performance to lead the team with another 25 points (nine goals, 16 assists) in just 11 games, eventually falling to the high-powered Spokane Chiefs in the second round.
Once eliminated, he took that strong play and brought it to Texas, where he shone bright on the world stage. He scored five goals and eight points to earn a gold medal at the U18 World Championships.
Drawing comparisons to former WHLer Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Reschny plays a game catered to the playmaking side of things.
Equipped with one of the higher IQs in the draft, he’s constantly scanning the ice, looking for his next lane to provide a quick thread. With the pass in mind, he often jumps ahead to make the play that few see, threading quick one-touches, cross-ice tap-ins or cheeky no-looks from behind the goal line.
His ability to find the right pass is at the top of this class, and that’s evidenced by his 66 assists (sixth in the WHL). He’s patient with the puck and doesn’t force the issue when it comes to his plays. With soft hands, terrific vision and a calmness to his game, he elevates the play of his linemates.
Enjoy the string of primary assists:
Beyond the offensive tools, Reschny doesn’t skimp on his defensive responsibilities. He’s a polished and complete player and is trusted in all situations. He backchecks and breaks down rushes with an active stick and relentless pressure.
The first thing that most will write off is his size, 5-foot-10, 190 pounds. But despite his stature, Reschny doesn’t shy away from physicality, engaging in puck battles and using his strong edges to hold his own. However, adding muscle will undoubtedly help his cause as he climbs the ranks.
His new path, which will take him to the University of North Dakota, should provide a pathway to work on that strength. Whether it’s more time in the weight room or playing against more mature opponents, the NCAA is often regarded as a more professional-like environment.
Reschny compensates for that size with strong edgework and speed, which allows him to dictate the game and bring it to him. He’s slippery, he competes, and he’s as responsible as they come.
The best-case scenario for Reschny would see him thrive as a second-line centre, playing in all situations and providing a playmaking nature to a power play. The Canucks have been eyeing prospects with a mix of skill and versatility, and Reschny fits that mold perfectly.
