2015 Top 100 NHL Prospects in the NCAA: #21-30

This is the eighth installment of our list of the top 100 NHL prospects playing in the NCAA this year, featuring players ranked 21-30 on our list.

Here are the previous installments of the list:

#91-100

#81-90

#71-80

#61-70

#51-60

21. Sean Kuraly, Forward, Miami(San Jose Sharks)

(photo by Matt Christians)

Kuraly is a big centerman that plays a very pro-style hockey game. He uses his big reach to protect the puck effectively and has a heavy shot that makes him a scoring threat anywhere in the offensive zone. He wins over 55% of his face-offs and can play a versatile two-way game that should help him succeed at the next level.

22. Zane McIntyre, Goalie, North Dakota(Boston Bruins)

(photo by Matt Christians)

McIntyre has been rock solid for North Dakota all season, manning the goal for all but about 50 minutes. He uses his big frame effectively and rarely gives up a soft goal. A strong defense in front of him limits his action, but he's shown the ability in the past to steal the occasional game if necessary.

23. Brandon Hickey, Defenseman, Boston University(Calgary Flames)

The freshman defenseman looks more like a chiseled veteran every time he steps onto the ice wearing scarlet and white. He makes good decisions and is poised with the puck. He skates well, can start the breakout and has a heavy shot from the point. He's physical when he needs to be, wins a lot of one-on-one battles and has a good stick.

24. Hudson Fasching, Forward, Minnesota(Buffalo Sabres)

(photo by Matt Christians)

Fasching has gone through a bit of a sophomore slump after a breakout freshman season, but he's still young and still has the tools to be a very effective, grinding two-way forward. Fasching is at his best when he's going hard to the net and using his big frame to help create space for teammates. Even when he hasn't been as effective offensively, he can still make a difference on the defensive end of the ice.

25. Kevin Roy, Forward, Northeastern(Anaheim Ducks)

(photo by Matt Dewkett)

The former Deerfield Prep star doesn't have the size, but he makes up for it with elite quickness, hands and creativity in the offensive zone. He's got an innate ability to find open space and generate offensive chances by drawing defenders to him and then distributing the puck to his linemates. He does a great job setting up shop on the half wall on the power play.

26. Danton Heinen, Forward, Denver(Boston Bruins)

(photo by Matt Christians)

Heinen has been one of the biggest surprises in college hockey this season. He hasn't drawn as much attention thanks to the unreal performance of fellow freshman Jack Eichel, but he's already passed the 40-point mark, which is a very hard number to reach for an NCAA rookie. Heinen still needs to add some muscle to his frame to help become a more complete player, but he's shown excellent scoring touch and playmaking ability which has made him effective on the offensive end immediately at the NCAA level.

27. Jonny Brodzinski, Forward, St. Cloud State(Los Angeles Kings)

(photo by Matt Christians)

Brodzinski is one of the best natural goal-scorers in the NCAA, thanks to the best shot in the NCAA. After scoring over 20 goals in each of his first two seasons, he'll at least come close to that mark this season. But more important are the steps Brodzinski has taken this season to be a leader on his team, and a more effective overall player. He made the move to center at midseason with the expectation that it would limit his offensive production a bit, but also put his team in a better position to win hockey games. That added versatility only improves his chances of succeeding at the NHL level.

28. Michael Parks, Forward, North Dakota(Philadelphia Flyers)

(photo by Matt Dewkett)

Parks is a classic example of a player that plays bigger than his size. A listed height/weight of 6-0 198 lbs. doesn't scream power forward, but Parks uses angles and leverage so well that he's among the best in the NCAA working with the puck along the boards. He also has strong hands, which makes him a dangerous finisher around the net. He doesn't play a flashy game, but he plays fast, heavy hockey that should earn him a roster spot and nice career at the NHL level.

29. Evan Cowley, Goalie, Denver(Florida Panthers)

(photo by Matt Christians)

Cowley's first season seeing regular playing time has been a successful one, despite being one of the youngest starting goalies in the NCAA. Cowley is big, but is efficient and poised with his movement and has the athleticism necessary to make a second save if necessary. He still needs more experience in the net but his success at such a young age is promising for his future.

30. Luc Snuggerud, Defense, Nebraska-Omaha(Chicago Blackhawks)

Matt Christians

(photo by Matt Christians)

Snuggerud is a smooth-skating offensive-minded defenseman that has made a nice transition straight for Minnesota high school hockey to the NCHC. He's developing and gaining confidence with his abilities, but he has the upside to be a very good puck-moving defenseman that can run a power play.