The AHL, or the American Hockey League, is a fascinating case study in the development of hockey players. It's a league where the numbers jump out, and fans find themselves wondering if the next big thing is right there, waiting in the wings. In recent memory, players like Martin Frk have lit up the AHL, making a case to get a shot in the NHL. Frk, a gifted sniper, broke records with his hard shot, but his lack of foot speed ultimately held him back from making the leap to the NHL. Despite this, the AHL continues to produce players who are making waves in the NHL, like Michael Carcone, an undrafted winger who played in the AHL for seven years before getting a shot with the Arizona Coyotes. So, what about the latest examples of those who put together outstanding 2025-26 campaigns in the AHL, and what's next for them?
One of the most intriguing cases is Jakob Pelletier, a former first-round pick who is still searching for a home at the highest level. Now in Tampa Bay's organization, Pelletier posted impressive numbers for the Syracuse Crunch, setting a franchise record with 19 consecutive games with a point. However, despite his talent, Pelletier didn't get a significant NHL role, and his future in Tampa remains uncertain. He'll be a name to watch in camp next season, and while his once-top-six upside may be no longer realistic, there's reason to think he can become a solid bottom-sixer if he can stay healthy.
Another player to watch is Alex Barré-Boulet, who had a point-per-game pace in 70 games for the Colorado Eagles. However, at age 29, he's no longer the once-promising prospect that generated excitement, and a full-time NHL career seems unlikely. Moving on to San Jose this off-season, Barré-Boulet will likely continue to shine in the AHL, benefiting the Barracuda's bright prospects.
Arthur Kaliyev, a second-round pick of the Kings, stands out as the league's first 40-goal man since 2023-24. With 40 goals in 70 games, Kaliyev has the most NHL experience out of the group listed here, with 204 games under his belt. However, his NHL role has gradually stalled out, and he remains unsigned. Another team taking a flyer on Kaliyev for the 2026-27 season seems likely in the coming weeks.
Zachary Jones, the league's top producer out of defensemen, recorded 52 assists and 62 points in 60 games for the Rochester Americans. The 5'11" lefty has 115 games of NHL experience, all as a Ranger. While he hasn't gotten a look in Buffalo, his signing with Utah for two years suggests he'll get a call-up if injuries occur. Jones has the makings of a great piece alongside Maveric Lamoureux for the Tucson Roadrunners, and it would be a shock if he's unable to get into a single NHL game again in 2026-27.
Finally, Michael DiPietro, the AHL Goaltender of the year, has just four NHL games to his name. Despite his impressive performance in the AHL, further opportunities just haven't arrived. However, with Joonas Korpisalo traded away, DiPietro has a chance to hold down the backup job behind Jeremy Swayman. If he can do so, it would be a great success story after years of patience as a 2017 draftee. After seeing Brandon Bussi's emergence, it's absolutely not too late for DiPietro to make a name in the NHL.
While any player on this list would dream of becoming the next Bussi or Yanni Gourde, there's always a spot in supporting roles for those in such a mold. The AHL's new Collective Bargaining Agreement allows teams to dress six veterans without dealing with the complications of counting games of an 'exempt' player, and it's a nod to the league's top players who offer significant organizational value, even if they never become a full-time NHLer. The future of these players remains uncertain, but their journey from the AHL to the NHL is a testament to the league's ability to develop talent and provide opportunities for players to shine.
