Welcome to the November edition of our Fantasy Hockey Prospects Report, where those in keeper and dynasty leagues can discover talent that may be worth taking a chance on going into next year. Listed below are three players who are not only performing well during the 2025-26 campaign but could be sleeper picks for managers who participate in rookie drafts.
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November Fantasy Hockey Prospect Report
Carson Carels – Prince George Cougars
Carson Carels is quickly climbing the ranks as a potential top 10 pick in next year’s draft, and with many fantasy hockey managers primarily focused on selecting young forwards, others would be wise to choose one of the hottest defensive prospects today. Carels has recorded 24 points through 23 games with the Cougars this year, which is just 11 points shy of his career-high with the franchise.
Known for being a defender who can play in any situation, Carels has not only impressed with keeping the puck out of the Cougars’ net, but also with his ability to set up forwards on the rush. Additionally, Carels brings both intensity and physicality to the ice, being a defenseman who can provide fantasy hockey value through point production and hits.
Adam Novotny – Peterborough Petes
Similar to Carels, Novotny is averaging just over a point per game this year, and his explosive start since coming over from the Czech Republic could make him one of the most sought-after left wingers in the 2026 draft.
Novotny has been recognized for being a workhorse who plays an aggressive but simple game. Having been ranked in the top 20 for next year’s draft by most hockey insiders and analysts, Novotny will be an efficient option for fantasy managers looking for a young goalscorer. Through 24 games, the Czech import has logged 14 goals and would likely impact fantasy categories such as shots on goal and power-play points. He’s also been praised for his shot accuracy and power, while being a forward who can be reliable on the defensive end.
Elton Hermansson – MoDo Jr.
Although Swedish players such as Ivar Stenberg and Viggo Bjorck are currently some of the main targets in next year’s draft, Elton Hermansson should not be overlooked for his talents. Through 12 games thus far, Hermansson has recorded 8 points for MoDo Jr., but his name started making headlines on the national level, where he continues to be one of Sweden’s best weapons.
He’s also found success wherever he’s played throughout the last five years, having been well over a point-per-game on many teams and consistently producing in the playoffs. Although he’s recognized for being an elite passer, Hermansson also deserves credit for his shooting ability and size, making him a dynamic option heading into the 2026 draft.
Although Gavin McKenna, Keaton Verhoeff, and Ethan Belchetz will be the primary targets for fantasy managers next year, Carels, Novotny, and Hermansson will hopefully remain viable options just slightly later in the draft. Make sure to return next month for our December edition of the Fantasy Hockey Prospects Report.
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