Chase Reid, a rising star in the hockey world, has taken a measured approach as he prepares for the upcoming NHL Draft first round on Friday in Buffalo. Ranked as the No. 2 North American skater by the league’s scouting department, Reid has sought to maintain focus amid widespread speculation and social media discussions about his future, which include potential selections by the Toronto Maple Leafs or San Jose Sharks, the teams holding the top two picks.

Reid, a 6-foot-3, 195-pound right-shot defenceman for the Ontario Hockey League’s Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, acknowledged the challenge of navigating the noise surrounding the draft process. “I like to see what people are thinking, but I don’t go out looking for it,” he said. His billet brother’s playful creation of AI images showing Reid in various NHL jerseys exemplifies the surreal nature of his current position.

The Michigan native’s hockey journey has been marked by setbacks and resilience. Originally committed to Michigan State University, Reid was released early from the United States Hockey League’s top tier in the 2024-25 season but found an opportunity with the Bismarck Bobcats in the North American Hockey League. His break came when Sault Ste. Marie drafted him in 2023 and brought him into the OHL after NCAA eligibility rules for major junior players shifted.

Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds general manager Kyle Raftis praised Reid’s rapid development since joining the team in December 2024, recalling how Reid quickly adapted to his new environment. “I haven’t seen too many 17 year olds walk in and feel that welcomed and that comfortable that quickly,” Raftis said. Reid’s 2025-26 season statistics include 18 goals and 48 points over 45 games, underscoring his offensive contributions from the blue line.

Raftis described Reid as a modern defenceman comparable to American NHL player Zach Werenski, highlighting his skill in transition, power play impact, and two-way play. Reid’s on-ice growth culminated in receiving the Canadian Hockey League’s top prospect award for the 2025-26 season, an honor also earned by Matthew Schaefer last year, who went No. 1 overall and subsequently won the Calder Trophy.

Reid reflected on the ups and downs of the past year as a “roller coaster” but emphasized his unwavering dedication to his goals. “I made sure everybody knew that I was not going to stop working until I achieved my goals,” he said.

While Reid’s draft ascent has largely been unexpected compared to other prospects like No. 1-ranked North American skater Gavin McKenna, Raftis noted that NHL teams were well aware of his potential by mid-2025. “He was no secret,” the general manager said, adding that Reid leaned on veteran guidance throughout the process.

As the draft approaches, Reid remains grounded, focusing on embracing the unique experience. “You only get to do it once,” he said, waiting to hear his name called after a journey marked by perseverance and steady improvement.