Chesley completed his first full AHL season in Hershey, logging 64 games and contributing 16 points in a defensively-oriented role. His leadership has clearly carried over from captaining Minnesota – teammates look to him in the defensive zone and his command of positioning has been a consistent strength. Offensive upside may be limited, but the two-way floor is what will get him to the NHL. With Cole Hutson now expected to fill a full-time role in Washington, Chesley sits as the Capitals’ top defensive prospect, and veteran additions to the blue line will afford him additional development time before his NHL deployment. A challenge for a role over the likes of a Desharnais or Liljegren looks realistic within the next two seasons if the trajectory continues. A dynasty hold with a reliable floor in deep bangers leagues.

Chesley was given the “C” in what turned out to be his final year in the NCAA with the University of Minnesota. He was relied upon more for his offense than in previous seasons, resulting in 20 points in 40 games. Chesley also managed to set a career high in penalty minutes with 48. After his season finished he signed a three-year ELC with the Capitals that is set to begin in 2025-26. He finished the 2024-25 campaign on an ATO with the Hershey Bears, where he produced three points in four regular-season games, but did not play in the postseason. Chesley has a high probability to make the NHL, but it may take time to get there as the Capitals let the prospects stew in the Bears’ system as long as possible.

While being on a good NCAA team, Chesley plays a solid shut-down and two-way transition role for the team. He somehow regressed in statistical numbers, going from 10 points to eight points in a handful more games. While Chesley can produce, with his role on this team it is hard to see. Coaches will love a player like Chesley as he can play any role you need, but perhaps is not the best suited to run a power play.

Chesley was again on Team USA for the World Junior Championship as the team won gold at the tournament. Chesley was one of the teams’ top defensemen and registered four points in seven games.

Chesley will return to the University of Minnesota for 2023-24, and is once again an option for Team USA at the World Junior Championship. Chesley will hope to improve on his 10 points in 36 games last season. Chesley still looks like a future NHLer but his scoring ability for fantasy may be in question, unless he shows progress soon.