Keep an eye on these NHL sophomores in 2025-26: Cutter Gauthier, Zack Bolduc, Marco Kasper, Will Smith, Mackie Samoskevich

Not every NHL rookie makes an instant impact; some take longer to adjust, but a strong finish can set the stage for a breakout sophomore season. Cutter Gauthier, Zack Bolduc, Marco Kasper, Will Smith, and Mackie Samoskevich showed signs of progress late last year. Each enters 2025-26 with momentum and higher expectations.