Roger McQueen Prospect Write Up
- dbuckley757
- Mar 17
- 2 min read
Roger McQueen
6'5 197lbs
Center/Winger
Roger McQueen, an 18-year-old center for the Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL), presents a compelling case for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Born October 2, 2006, in Saskatoon, the 6'5", 197-pound prospect combines size and scoring ability. His performance has drawn attention, though injuries introduce uncertainty regarding his draft position.
Statistical Output
In the 2024-25 season, McQueen recorded 8 goals and 3 assists in 8 games (1.38 points per game) before an upper-body injury sidelined him from mid-October to early March. Post-return, he has 1 assist in 2 games. In 2023-24, he posted 21 goals and 30 assists (51 points) in 53 games, adding 4 goals and 1 assist in 4 playoff games. His 2022-23 rookie season yielded 4 goals and 10 assists in 55 games. Career WHL totals: 33 goals, 44 assists, 77 points in 118 games. Internationally, he won gold with Canada at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and 2024 World Under-18s, though an injury limited him to two games in the latter.
Playing Style
McQueen excels as a shooter, evidenced by his 32% shooting percentage this season (8 goals on 25 shots). His one-timer, showcased in a four-goal game against Moose Jaw, suggests professional potential. Playmaking is adequate (30 assists in 2023-24), but secondary to his scoring. At 6'5", he has physical upside, demonstrated in a five-point game (2 goals, 3 assists) against Regina last season. However, physical engagement is inconsistent, and his skating—adequate for his size—lacks agility and quickness. Off-puck effort can wane.
Injury Concerns
Durability is a primary risk factor. McQueen missed over 40 games this season and 15 in 2023-24. While his talent aligns with a top-10 pick, health issues may push him to the mid-first round, depending on teams’ risk tolerance. A strong finish could mitigate concerns.
Comparable: Blake Wheeler
McQueen shares traits with Blake Wheeler, a 6'5" NHL veteran (now 225 lbs). Wheeler’s 2003-04 high school stats (45 goals, 44 assists in 45 games) outpace McQueen’s WHL production, but the latter faces stiffer competition. Wheeler excels in skating and passing; McQueen’s shooting stands out. Both leverage size with finesse. Wheeler matured gradually; McQueen shows earlier promise.
NHL Outlook
McQueen’s size and shot project well to the NHL, though skating improvements are necessary for its faster pace. Post-draft, he may require AHL seasoning unless a standout playoff performance accelerates his timeline. Potential ceiling: 35 goals, 70 points as a top-six forward; floor: 20-goal middle-six contributor. Injuries may lower his draft stock, but his skill set remains notable.
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