The NHL Draft is coming fast and Sportsvival is here to help go over the top prospects who will be selected on June 27 in Los Angeles.
Today we scout:
C- Michael Misa
Saginaw (OHL)
6’1” 185 lbs.
Michael Misa was born on February 16, 2007 in Oakville, Ontario.
Misa became a known commodity in 2022, when he had 20 points in 7 games during the OHL Cup to beat Connor McDavid’s tournament scoring record.
In April 2022, Misa was granted exceptional player status to enter the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) for the 2022-2023 season. Misa was only the eighth player to be granted exceptional status, the previous being Shane Wright. A few weeks later, he was selected first overall in the 2022 OHL Draft by the Saginaw Spirit.
During his rookie season, Misa scored 22 goals and 34 assists in 45 games and was named the Emms Family Award as OHL Rookie of the Year.
He scored at a lower pae in 2023-2024, scoring 29 goals and 46 assists in 67 games. His lower points per game could have been attributed to the team acquiring veteran junior players like Owen Beck.
In 2024-2025, Misa took his game to a new level, tallying 62 goals and 72 assists in only 65 games. His 134 points led the league and his 62 goals tied Patrick Kane for most goals in a draft-eligible season. His performance has now put him on the shortlist of potential first overall picks in 2025.
What does the tape say?
Positives
Skating
Non-stop motor
Hockey smarts
Vision
Playmaking
Two-way game
Weaknesses
Size
Physicality
Face-offs can be improved
What the Vival sees:
Michel Misa is the most complete player in this draft without question. His ceiling is the highest and he should be able to enter the NHL on day one. His mix of skating and hockey IQ will allow him to be a top line center in the NHL. If Misa can get bigger and stronger he could become a generational talent for a lucky NHL team.
Misa reminds Sportsvival of a young John Tavares. He is a left-handed centerman that understands the whole game.
(photo courtesy of TSN)