“Draft eligible or not, certain players immediately look pro-ready. Adam Novotny, a sizeable winger from Czechia, fits that description. At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, his game comes with a ton of size that is complemented by fluid skating and a hefty release.

Selected ninth overall by the Peterborough Petes in the 2024 CHL Import Draft, Novotny has burst onto the OHL scene, posting 19 goals and 35 points in just 29 games to lead his team. Beyond the production and obvious size advantage, it’s his competitive edge that stands out most. He works hard on pucks, drives the middle of the ice, and finishes plays with a legitimate release.

Novotny plays with pace and purpose, and his versatility gives him a strong chance to climb draft boards as the season progresses. There’s a realistic scenario where he plays himself out of the 15–32 range entirely. But if he’s still available, the Canucks could grab some serious value here.”