The AHL, or the American Hockey League, is a fascinating arena where the next big NHL stars are forged. It's a place where the numbers jump out, and fans find themselves wondering if the next big upgrade is right there, waiting in the wings. In recent memory, the gifted sniper Martin Frk's 224 AHL goals were enough to get a look from several clubs. But what about the latest examples of those who put together outstanding 2025-26 campaigns in the AHL, and what's next for them?
One of the most intriguing cases is Jakob Pelletier, a former first-round pick who is still searching for a home at the highest level. Now in Tampa Bay's organization, Pelletier posted 49 helpers and 77 points in 63 games for the Syracuse Crunch. At one point, he set a franchise record with 19 consecutive games with a point. While the Bolts had numerous injuries, Pelletier didn't get the chance to slot into a meaningful role. Despite being signed for two more years in Tampa, Pelletier is in a good situation on a team often able to get the most out of under-the-radar forwards. He'll be a name to watch in camp next season, and while his once top-six upside is no longer realistic, there's plenty of reason to think Pelletier can become a solid bottom-sixer if he can stay healthy.
Another name familiar to Tampa fans is Alex Barré-Boulet, who came away at a point-per-game pace in 70 games for the Colorado Eagles. At age 29, he's no longer the once-prospect that generated some excitement being plucked by Seattle nearly five years ago. Moving on to San Jose this off-season, Barre-Boulet will figure to bring his high production to the Barracuda, benefitting their several bright prospects. Arthur Kaliyev, ranking third in points but first in goals, was a weapon for the Belleville Senators with 40 goals in 70 games, shooting 15%. Kaliyev has the most NHL experience out of the group listed here, 204 games, and turning in 14 tallies in his first full-time NHL season still before even turning 21, it looked like Los Angeles had a strong young piece on their hands.
Zachary Jones stands out as the league's top producer out of defensemen, recording 52 assists and 62 points in 60 games for the Rochester Americans. The 5'11" lefty has 115 games of NHL experience, all as a Ranger after they selected him in the third round of the 2019 draft. Signing with Utah for two years, Jones doesn't have the clearest path into the Mammoth's roster, but in the event of any injuries, he should get a call-up. Michael DiPietro, the AHL Goaltender of the year, posted an insane .930 save percentage, 1.91 goals-against-average, and 34-8-1 record. The 27-year-old has just four NHL games to his name, but after seeing Brandon Bussi's emergence, it's absolutely not too late for DiPietro to make a name in the NHL.
