Rising Stars from Europe: Who’s the Next Tim Stützle?

 

Tim Stützle captured the attention of NHL scouts and fans alike when he burst onto the scene as a dynamic force for the Ottawa Senators. Drafted third overall in 2020 out of Germany, Stützle's mix of skating, skill, and hockey IQ proved that top-tier talent can emerge outside of the traditional North American pipelines. His quick transition to the NHL and rapid ascent to stardom have opened the door for more European prospects to be viewed as potential franchise cornerstones. As we head into the 2025 NHL Draft, the question becomes: Who is the next European breakout star?

From puck-moving defensemen to snipers with elite offensive upside, Europe is teeming with talent. This article takes an in-depth look at the most promising European prospects eligible for the 2025 NHL Draft. Using recent scouting reports, advanced stats, and comparisons to current NHLers, we identify the names to know, what makes them special, and how they could shape the future of an NHL franchise.

Adam Titlbach (Czech Republic) – RW/C – TPS U20 (Finland) One of the most talked-about forwards in the European scouting circles, Adam Titlbach has the offensive flair and versatility that NHL teams covet. Playing in Finland's U20 SM-sarja league, he has shown a lethal combination of puck control, speed, and offensive creativity. What makes Titlbach stand out is his ability to play both center and wing, adapting his style based on his linemates.

Scouts praise his ability to drive the play in transition, often gaining the offensive zone with possession and creating scoring chances on the fly. He excels in one-on-one situations and has shown excellent poise under pressure. With a strong frame and a knack for scoring in tight areas, Titlbach has been compared to a young Filip Forsberg.

Stat Line (2024-25 SM-sarja U20): 42 GP, 22 G, 34 A, 56 PTS

Aron Kiviharju (Finland) – D – HIFK (Liiga) Once viewed as a potential top-three pick, Kiviharju's stock dropped slightly due to injuries, but his talent remains undeniable. A gifted puck-moving defenseman with elite skating and passing ability, Kiviharju plays a cerebral game with an excellent first pass out of the zone. Despite missing most of last season, he has returned stronger and smarter, showcasing improved decision-making and composure.

He projects as a top-four defenseman at the NHL level, particularly in systems that prioritize speed and skill from the blue line. If he can stay healthy, Kiviharju could prove to be one of the biggest steals of the 2025 draft.

Stat Line (2024-25 Liiga): 33 GP, 2 G, 15 A, 17 PTS

Matvei Shuravin (Russia) – D – CSKA Moscow (MHL/KHL) A towering presence on the ice, Shuravin brings size (6'5") and strength with deceptive agility. Though primarily known for his physical play and shutdown capabilities, he's also demonstrated solid puck-moving ability and an improving shot from the point. He’s been a standout for CSKA’s junior team and has earned spot duty in the KHL, where he’s held his own against seasoned professionals.

Shuravin isn’t just big; he’s smart, using his reach and positioning to break up plays. As more NHL teams look to build around mobile, defensively sound blueliners, Shuravin’s skillset is increasingly in demand.

Stat Line (2024-25 MHL): 46 GP, 6 G, 18 A, 24 PTS

Noel Fransen (Sweden) – LW – Djurgårdens IF J20 (J20 Nationell) Noel Fransen has been a riser on draft boards thanks to his pure goal-scoring instincts and tenacity. While not the flashiest skater, he knows how to get into dangerous scoring positions and has a lethal release. He plays with grit, isn’t afraid to battle in the corners, and constantly finds space around the net.

What scouts love about Fransen is his high motor and competitiveness. He never takes a shift off and has shown leadership potential at the junior level. Some evaluators have drawn stylistic comparisons to Tyler Bertuzzi, albeit with a better scoring touch.

Stat Line (2024-25 J20): 38 GP, 27 G, 19 A, 46 PTS

Emil Hemming (Finland) – RW – TPS Liiga Hemming has made a name for himself as one of the top goal scorers in the Finnish system. With a quick release, powerful shot, and excellent hands in tight, he’s a pure finisher who thrives on the power play. Despite not being the biggest player on the ice, he’s strong on his skates and difficult to knock off the puck.

His game bears resemblance to Patrik Laine in terms of shooting style, though he adds a bit more hustle and defensive effort. If Hemming can round out the rest of his game, he has the potential to be a legitimate top-six NHL winger.

Stat Line (2024-25 Liiga): 40 GP, 16 G, 9 A, 25 PTS

Why Europe Matters More Than Ever: The increasing success of European-trained players in the NHL has encouraged more teams to invest in international scouting and development. Players like Stützle, Elias Pettersson, and David Pastrnak have shown that European prospects can offer high ceilings and polished skill sets.

What’s especially intriguing about the 2025 draft class is the diversity of styles. You have high-skill wingers like Titlbach and Hemming, physical defensemen like Shuravin, and two-way prospects like Fransen who can impact the game in multiple ways. These players have honed their skills in competitive, professional-style environments, giving them a head start as they prepare for the transition to North American ice.

Conclusion: Tim Stützle's success story is more than just a personal triumph—it's a signal to NHL teams that elite talent can come from anywhere. As we approach the 2025 NHL Draft, these European prospects are making strong cases to be the next wave of stars. Whether it's the slick-skating Kiviharju or the sniper instincts of Hemming, there's no shortage of potential breakout candidates.

Keep your eyes on this group. The next face of an NHL franchise might just be playing overseas today.

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