Projecting the CHL lineup for December’s USA Prospects Challenge
The CHL USA Prospects Challenge will take place Dec. 1-2 in Chicoutimi and Quebec City, featuring top 2027 NHL Draft prospects from the CHL and the U.S. National Team Development Program. NHL Central Scouting will build the CHL roster from OHL, WHL, and QMJHL players, while USA Hockey will use its U-18 NTDP team. The CHL has announced four players so far, with more expected around Oct. 21 and final selections due in early-to-mid November.
The two-game CHL USA Prospects Challenge is scheduled for Dec. 1-2 in Chicoutimi and Quebec City. It matches top 2027 NHL Draft prospects from the CHL against the U.S. National Team Development Program. NHL Central Scouting selects the CHL side from OHL, WHL and QMJHL players, regardless of nationality. USA Hockey uses its U-18 NTDP roster.
The CHL named four players in September, with roughly a dozen more expected around Oct. 21 and final picks due in early-to-mid November. The CHL swept the 2024 series; the U.S. won the 2025 edition in overtime of the deciding game. This year's projected CHL forward group includes many centers and first-round candidates.
The event could raise the profiles of teenage hockey players, shaping how NHL teams, scouts and fans view their draft potential. Families, junior clubs and host communities in Chicoutimi and Quebec City may see added attention, travel and local spending. For the CHL and USNTDP, a strong showing may influence reputations and future player development narratives. The games may also give audiences an early look at emerging talent, though their long-term impact on players' careers remains uncertain.