Flames end the first round with a jolt of speed in Cullen Potter

With the final selection of the 2025 NHL draft on Friday night, the Calgary Flames selected Cullen Potter. He turned heads in his first season at Arizona State, recording 13 goals and nine assists for 22 points as a freshman. He also posted a rather impressive junior career across multiple junior leagues in the United States. He racked up an eye-popping 87 points back during the 2022-23 season when he was a member of the Dallas Stars Elite 16U AAA.

If there is one thing Potter is known for, it's his skating and speed. He was discussed as being one of, if not the fastest, players in this year's draft. He's the type of player who will out-skate everyone around him, giving many one-on-one chances. He also has excellent control over his skating. He's able to stop and change direction with ease. These two skills create a deadly combination for opposing teams. Potter is someone who can easily change direction and then outrace everyone for the puck.

However, while his speed is impressive, it's the build that leaves a lot to be desired. He measured in at 5' 9" and weighs 168 pounds, both of which are well under the league average. The concern is he'll be bullied at the next level. It will not matter how fast you are if you're constantly on your back after a big hit. He also already has consistency concerns; however, if he's unable to keep up with other players physically, those concerns about his consistency will only increase and become more apparent.

If he's able to prove himself at Arizona State or the AHL, then he should see himself as a middle-six winger. He could also find time on the power-play due to his speed, which will create more breakaway opportunities. He's likely three years away from the league, with the hope that he'll naturally get bigger. If he's able to put it all together, the Flames might have one of the most explosive players in the league on their hands.