Mason West, the Chicago Blackhawks' first-round pick (29th overall) in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, is not your average hockey prospect. Hailing from Edina, Minnesota, West's unique background as a two-sport star has captured the attention of the hockey world.
West excelled in both football and hockey at Edina High School. As a junior in 2024, he showcased his quarterback skills by completing 178 of 244 passes for an impressive 2,592 yards, along with 37 touchdowns and only four interceptions. His passer rating was a remarkable 139.9. College recruiters from Marshall University, Kent State University, Miami (Ohio) University, and South Dakota State University expressed interest in him.
On the ice, West also shone, tallying 51 goals and 63 assists in 91 games over three seasons. In his draft year, 2024-25, he played 10 games for the Fargo Force in the United States Hockey League (USHL), notching one goal and eight assists. Before fully committing to hockey, West intends to play football during his senior year of high school. After his high school season, he will return to the Fargo Force before heading to Michigan State University for college hockey, having already committed to the Spartans.
Standing tall at 6-foot-6 and weighing 218 pounds, West possesses the size and athleticism that NHL teams covet. Scouts describe him as a fluid skater with a powerful stride and a natural shooter with a quick release. He is known as a playmaker with exceptional vision in the offensive zone, using his frame to his advantage. Defensively, West uses his anticipation to position himself well and is strong on the backcheck, although consistency in his engagement is an area for improvement.
West has role models in the NHL who have also navigated the path of being multi-sport athletes. Anders Lee, captain of the New York Islanders, and Tage Thompson, a forward for the Buffalo Sabres, have offered guidance and inspiration. Lee, who also played football and hockey at Edina High School, has reached out to West to offer support. West has studied Thompson, another tall forward, to learn from his game.
West's decision to focus on hockey was influenced by Lee and his belief that his athletic skillset translates best to the ice. Despite his talent as a quarterback, West sees a greater opportunity for success in hockey.
While West possesses considerable skill and potential, it is expected that he will require more time to develop before reaching the NHL level. The Blackhawks are well-positioned to allow him that time, given their deep prospect pool. His development will continue in the USHL and at Michigan State University.
The Blackhawks view West as a long-term pick with the potential to make a significant impact in the NHL. His unique background as a two-sport athlete, combined with his size, skill, and hockey sense, makes him an intriguing prospect with a high ceiling.
