During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Charlie Trethewey relocated from Ellicott City, Maryland, to his father’s hometown of Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, to live with his grandfather. A year later, the flame was ignited for Charlie’s hockey career. Charlie moved closer to Cranberry, Pennsylvania, home of the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex and the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite hockey program. Four years later, it all came full circle when Kyle Dubas selected Trethewey with the 73rd pick in the 2025 NHL draft. The hallmark of Trethewey’s game is his ability to rifle the puck. Combined with his pest-like defensive game, silky-smooth skating, and his determination, it is clear to see that Trethewey’s potential is moving in an upward spiral. For a plausible NHL comparison, think of Anaheim Ducks defenseman Jacob Trouba. To further his development, Trethewey will need to stay composed on the ice. Specifically, when met with pressure, he should not fold like a lawn chair, which leads to blind passes or being met with a massive hit. At times, that had been apparent with Trethewey during his stint with the USNTDP. Trethewey’s upcoming 2025-26 season will be his first in the NCAA with the Boston University Terriers. If Trethewey can sustain the pressure, he will be one of the most intriguing freshmen in the NCAA and potentially make his way to Pittsburgh faster than anticipated.

Final Rankings – One of the more impactful defenders on a NTDP team that struggled to hit its stride for most of the year. Trethewey is a solid two-way RHD who could find a role as a bottom-pair NHL defenseman.—

June 2025Like your defenseman prospects toolsy, with good size and a long development runway? Then Charlie Tretheway might be your guy. A young skater for this draft class, Tretheway has a long road ahead in terms of developing into a professional player. He’ll need to improve his decision-making and play on the puck, especially under pressure, and the move to Boston University next season should provide more than enough challenge in that department. If he’s able to develop well, Tretheway projects to be a physical No. 4-6 NHL defender with a better-than-average shot. Anni Karvinen