Brandon Gorzynski, born on March 12, 2007, in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a left winger currently playing for the Calgary Hitmen in the Western Hockey League (WHL). Eligible for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Gorzynski has garnered attention from scouts due to his projectable frame, two-way potential, and improving offensive game. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing around 181 pounds, he possesses the size that NHL teams covet in their prospects.
Gorzynski’s journey to the WHL began when the Hitmen selected him in the 2022 WHL U.S. Priority Draft with the 15th overall pick. After a relatively quiet rookie season in 2023-24, where he recorded nine points (four goals, five assists) in 42 games, Gorzynski demonstrated significant growth in the 2024-25 season. He quadrupled his offensive output, amassing 42 points (17 goals, 25 assists) in 68 regular-season games. His contributions extended into the playoffs, where he was among Calgary's leading scorers with eight points (four goals, four assists) in 11 games.
Scouting reports describe Gorzynski as an aggressive, two-way player who uses his size and speed effectively. He excels at driving the play, crashing the net, and capitalizing on rebounds and scoring chances. Gorzynski is noted for his strong forechecking presence and intelligent off-puck movement, consistently taking effective routes to the puck and pressuring opposing puck carriers. His ability to knock down breakout passes and create turnovers in the offensive zone has also been highlighted. He also protects the puck well, utilizing his reach and sturdy frame.
Defensively, Gorzynski demonstrates solid positional awareness and defensive instincts. He positions himself well on the backcheck, disrupts plays, and blocks shots effectively. His plus-27 rating in the 2024-25 season was among the best on the Hitmen, indicating his reliability in his own zone. While he could stand to add more aggression and physicality to his defensive game, the foundation is there for him to develop into a dependable two-way player.
Several scouting reports suggest areas for improvement in Gorzynski's game. Some scouts point to a need for increased strength to win more puck battles and a greater physical edge to his overall play. Others mention inconsistencies in his puck management and finishing ability. While he has a quick and accurate shot, his anticipation and puck-handling skills could be refined to elevate his offensive impact.
Currently, NHL Central Scouting ranks Gorzynski 50th among North American skaters, a significant jump from his midterm ranking of 81. Other rankings vary, with Elite Prospects.com placing him at 68, TSN/Craig Button at 62, and TSN/Bob McKenzie at 76. These rankings suggest that Gorzynski is projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
NHL scouts see Gorzynski potentially developing into a solid depth winger or a checking-line player at the NHL level. To reach his full potential, he will need to continue adding strength, improving his puck skills, and refining his overall consistency. However, his combination of size, two-way ability, and offensive upside make him an intriguing prospect for NHL teams looking to add depth and versatility to their organizations. Given his steady growth and strong work ethic, Brandon Gorzynski is a player to watch as he continues his development in the WHL.
