NHL's newest stars shine as top draft picks Yakemchuk and Frondell debut with instant impact
Two top draft picks made their NHL debuts this week, marking the first appearances for players selected in the 2024 and 2025 drafts. Carter Yakemchuk, the No. 7 pick in 2024, suited up for the Ottawa Senators, while Anton Frondell, the No. 3 pick in 2025, took the ice for the Chicago Blackhawks. Both rookies contributed immediately, with each recording a point in their first game.
Yakemchuk, an 18-year-old defenceman, registered a goal and an assist in Ottawa's contest. His two shots on goal included a midrange strike that found the net, along with a long-range attempt. He also tied for the team lead among defencemen with three shot attempts at even strength. The Senators gave him first-unit power-play minutes alongside top forwards Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, Drake Batherson and Dylan Cozens.
Frondell, also 18, earned the primary assist on Ilya Mikheyev's first-period goal for Chicago. He fired two midrange shots on net during his debut and skated primarily on a line with Connor Bedard. The Blackhawks, who boast the league's youngest roster at an average age of 25.99, also used Frondell on the top power-play unit with Frank Nazar and Artyom Levshunov. Neither player could have featured last season, as NHL rules prevent draft picks from participating until the season following their selection. Their debuts come at a critical time: Ottawa is battling for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, tied with the New York Islanders and 11 games remaining.
The performances of Yakemchuk and Frondell highlight the immediate impact of high-end prospects. Ottawa gains offensive production from the back end as it pushes for a playoff berth. Meanwhile, Chicago continues its youth movement, integrating another top pick into its rebuilding core.
