Nick Moldenhauer had the scariest draft year of any NHL prospect eligible for the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. However, the young forward overcame an unfortunate, scary circumstances and was ultimately drafted in the third round by the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Moldenhauer was a 2004 hockey prospect hailing from the hockey hub of Mississauga, Ontario. The right-handed forward played his minor-hockey for the Toronto Titans organization of the GTHL. In his final season of minor hockey, Moldenhauer led his team in points and goals. He played in 63 games, scoring 45 goals and 77 assists.
Moldenhauer was a 2004 hockey prospect hailing from the hockey hub of Mississauga, Ontario. The right-handed forward played his minor-hockey for the Toronto Titans organization of the GTHL. In his final season of minor hockey, Moldenhauer led his team in points and goals. He played in 63 games, scoring 45 goals and 77 assists.
The Mississauga native was eventually drafted 20th overall by the Ottawa 67's during the 2020 OHL Entry Draft. Moldenhauer would not sign with the 67's and instead sign to play for the Chicago Steel of the USHL.
Moldenhauer would play six USHL games during the 2020–21 season, scoring two assists. He would also suit up for three USHL playoff games, unfortunately without recording any points.
Moldenhauer would return to the Chicago Steel for the 2021-22 season. Although missing the first few months of the season with an unknown illness, reports came out saying he potentially had mono. Once Moldenhauer returned to the Steel lineup, he was then sidelined with an injury during his first game. The winger was accidentally kicked in the head during his first shift of the game. Moldenhauer was patched up with stitches and would sit out till the end of November.
Once Moldenhauer was fully healthy, he excelled playing for a stacked Chicago Steel team. Moldenhauer had 18 goals and 25 assists in 41 games while playing second tier minutes. Remember, Moldenhauer was playing behind Hurricanes prospect Jackson Blake and projected top prospect Adam Fantilli.
Moldenhauer was also invited to represent Team Canada at the U18 IIHF Hockey Tournament, where he played in four games. Moldenhauer scored one goal and had two assists.
By the end of the season, Moldenhauer was ranked as early as the second round, but likely in the third round. The Toronto Maple Leafs made the call and drafted the forward 95th overall.
Moldenhauer plays a very smart game. He made a great impact during his year with the Chicago Steel. He is a player that can play many different offensive roles due to his skating. He skates smoothly and has no noticeable skating flaws. He is very comfortable on his edges and is a great competitor. His next steps are to improve his defensive game and develop more strength.
Leafs fans should be excited about Nick Moldenhauer.
Question(s) and Answer(s):
Q: Who was/is your favourite NHL hockey team?
A: My favourite team is the Toronto Maple Leafs
Q: What is your favourite hockey memory?
A: Being able to play with my brother when we were younger
Q: Who is a person you look up to?
A: My mom and dad
Q: Who is your favourite hockey player?
A: Nathan MacKinnon