The American Hockey League (AHL) has named its Top Prospects Team for the 2024-25 season, emphasizing young talent poised to make significant impacts in the NHL. This year's lineup includes three forwards, two defensemen, and one goaltender, all of whom are expected to be future NHL stars.

Goaltender Jet Greaves of the Cleveland Monsters has demonstrated exceptional skill, finishing the season with a .920 save percentage and leading in wins. Logan Mailloux, defenseman for the Laval Rocket, played a crucial role in his team’s success, contributing significantly to their excellent season. Scott Morrow from the Chicago Wolves had a strong rookie campaign that showcased his offensive capabilities from the blue line.

Among the forwards, Dalibor Dvorský of the Springfield Thunderbirds had an impressive rookie season, while Konsta Helenius from the Rochester Americans garnered attention for his significant contributions during the playoffs. Notably, Bradly Nadeau led all AHL rookies in goals, solidifying his status as a top prospect.

Jet Greaves, the undrafted goaltender for the Columbus Blue Jackets, is expected to play a significant role next season as he transitions to a one-way contract after a commendable performance in the AHL and limited NHL appearances. The Blue Jackets are keen on rejuvenating their goaltending strategy, especially as they face challenges trading Elvis Merzlikins, who is under contract for two more years. Additionally, doubts linger over Daniil Tarasov's future with the team.

Meanwhile, Vancouver Canucks center Pius Suter has established himself as a crucial player amidst team injuries, racking up 45 points and demonstrating impressive efficiency at 19.2% shooting. Despite his contributions, the Canucks may find Suter's impending free agency costly, as the market is predicted to yield lucrative offers that could exceed their budget, given their tight cap situation and the potential for overinflated contracts this offseason.

The Columbus Blue Jackets pulled off a crucial 3-0 victory against the Philadelphia Flyers, keeping their slim playoff hopes alive. Rookie goalie Jet Greaves has been the standout player, tallying his second shutout in just three games since being recalled from the AHL, boasting a stellar .975 save percentage. Adam Fantilli's fifth goal in three games sealed the win, demonstrating his clutch performance in a tough emotional time following a family loss. With a potential playoff clinching scenario against the New York Islanders, the Blue Jackets remain optimistic under coach Dean Evason.

The Philadelphia Flyers ended their home season on a disappointing note, suffering a 3-0 defeat to the Columbus Blue Jackets. With this loss, the Flyers stayed fifth in the standings for the 2025 NHL Draft. Interim coach Brad Shaw managed a respectable 5-2-1 record in his short tenure. Columbus, needing a win, is now two points behind the Montreal Canadiens in the playoff race. This game saw goaltender Jet Greaves shine for the Blue Jackets, stopping all 29 shots, while Flyers goalie Sam Ersson made 31 saves.

Despite the loss, the Flyers had moments of opportunity, with Tyson Foerster and Matvei Michkov coming close to scoring. The first period showcased a balanced effort from both teams, though Columbus broke through in the second. Dante Fabbro opened the scoring with a screened shot, followed by Kent Johnson's one-timer, putting the Blue Jackets up 2-0. In a frustrating finale, even as the Flyers pressed forward, they couldn't find the net, leaving them with a bittersweet end to the home stretch of the season.

Jet Greaves of the Columbus Blue Jackets has earned the title of NHL's First Star, showcasing an impressive 3-0-0 record, a stellar 1.00 goals-against average, a .968 save percentage, and one shutout. His performance has been pivotal in keeping Columbus in playoff contention. Connor McDavid from the Edmonton Oilers claimed the Second Star with a remarkable nine assists across three games, helping his team clinch a playoff spot for the sixth consecutive year. McDavid’s current season stats boast 26 goals and 73 assists in 66 games, marking him as the fourth player in history to achieve over 70 assists for five consecutive seasons. Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets rounded out the trio with the Third Star honor, also going 3-0-0 with a 1.62 GAA and clinching the Presidents' Trophy for his team. Hellebuyck leads the league in wins, GAA, save percentage, and shutouts.