The American Hockey League (AHL) is a fascinating breeding ground for future NHL stars, and the 2025-26 season was no exception. This article delves into the stories of some of the top performers in the AHL, exploring their journeys and what the future may hold for them.
One standout player is Jakob Pelletier, a former first-round pick who is still searching for a home at the highest level. Despite a strong season with the Syracuse Crunch, where he set a franchise record with 19 consecutive games with a point, Pelletier struggled to find a meaningful role in the NHL. His situation highlights the challenges faced by young players in the AHL, where talent can sometimes be overshadowed by the need for immediate impact in the NHL.
Another player who made waves in the AHL is Alex Barré-Boulet, an undrafted center who put up impressive numbers with the Colorado Eagles. However, his NHL prospects are limited, and he is now with the San Jose Sharks, where his high production will benefit their AHL affiliate, the Barracuda, as they aim for playoff contention.
Arthur Kaliyev, a second-round pick of the Kings, also had a notable season with the Belleville Senators, becoming the league's first 40-goal man since 2023-24. Despite his impressive scoring, Kaliyev's NHL role has been limited, and he remains unsigned. The article speculates that he may be a candidate for a PTO offer in the coming weeks.
Zachary Jones, the league's top producer among defensemen, recorded 52 assists and 62 points for the Rochester Americans. His size and smooth skating have held him back from a clear path to the NHL, but the article suggests he could be a valuable addition to the Tucson Roadrunners alongside Maveric Lamoureux.
Michael DiPietro, the AHL Goaltender of the Year, has been a consistent performer in the AHL, but his NHL opportunities have been limited. With the Boston Bruins, he has just four NHL games to his name, and the article discusses the potential for him to succeed as a backup behind Jeremy Swayman, especially with the recent trade of Joonas Korpisalo.
The article concludes by emphasizing the value of the AHL and its role in developing players who may never become full-time NHLers. It highlights the new Collective Bargaining Agreement that allows teams to dress six veterans without the complications of counting games of an 'exempt' player, recognizing the significant organizational value these players bring.
