Bednarik’s sophomore year at Boston University has been modest from a production standpoint with five goals and 12 points in 30 games playing in a depth role on an underperforming college squad. A two-way center with a strong defensive toolkit, he competes hard, blocks shots, and does the kind of work that doesn’t always show up on the scoresheet but tends to keep players employed in the NHL. BU’s season is now over and he remains unsigned, meaning a Bridgeport ATO is a possibility in order for the Islanders to assess his pro readiness. A Jean-Gabriel Pageau projection is interesting – a reliable defensive center with special teams upside and a realistic path to sticking in the NHL. Not a fantasy asset, but a player NHL organizations value.

Bednarik has had a bit of an underwhelming 2024-25 season with Boston University from a points perspective, posting only 19 points in 40 games last season. However, he has faced some tough matchups and has demonstrated strong defensive ability against larger opponents. He likely does not develop into a high-scoring NHL player, but he could eventually work his way into a depth position as a third or fourth-line defensive forward. He will not become an exciting producer for fantasy managers, but NHL GMs should still have some excitement for his prospect.

Bednarik has had a sleepy start to his first college season with Boston University. Through his first 11 games this season, Bednarik has yet to find the back of the net for his first collegiate goal. He has five assists so far and has been very good at creating chaos by driving the net. This season, he has been called upon to be a defensive staple for the Terriers, playing on the penalty kill and seemingly always in a good position. Though the offence has not yet come for Bednarik, this season has been pretty positive, especially for playing on the third line. William Langstaff

The Islanders selected Bednarik 61st overall.

Bednarik at this point in the year is a rare case of “same as we left him”. We did get to see his power game start to take over though. Bednarik has this great understanding of creating space for his teammates to operate and making smart effective plays while never being afraid to get greasy. What really sells me on Bednarik is the little things: he goes to net, he chases rebounds, he causes turnovers, he creates breakouts (primarily for Cole Eiserman). Bednarik is not the fastest player, but he’s got a strong engine, and the push to get those second chances he wouldn’t otherwise get if he wasn’t as athletic or smart as he is. I don’t know whether he’s a skilled grinder (currently leaning here) or a grinding skill player but I’d bet it lands him an NHL job in some capacity.

Bednarik oozes confidence and boasts a remarkable power game with his considerable strength and a good dosage of pro habits. He’s raw at the moment, but has been trending in the right direction and looks to be a great “draft-low/high floor” option. He needs some time in the oven, but whether it be as a power forward-esque skill player or as a physically imposing, oppressive grinder, it’s hard not to see him in the NHL at some capacity in the future. – David Saad