Without a doubt, the Winnipeg Jets have built one of the more exciting prospect pools in the NHL. Up front, names like Brad Lambert, Nikita Chibrikov, Brayden Yager, Colby Barlow, and Kieron Walton headline a forward group full of potential. In goal, Thomas Milic and Domenic DiVincentiis offer serious promise between the pipes. But when it comes to the blueline, things are starting to look a little thin.

Yes, Elias Salomonsson is closing in on being NHL-ready, and Alfons Freij was just signed to his entry-level deal. You could still argue Ville Heinola is part of the mix — but let’s be honest, his future in Winnipeg looks more like a trade chip than a long-term piece at this point. That’s why at this year’s NHL Draft, the Jets should be looking to restock their defensive cupboard — and that starts with targeting Henry Brzustewicz with the 28th overall pick.

Brzustewicz is a smooth-skating, puck-moving defenceman who brings composure and poise to his own zone. He’s calm under pressure, makes strong first passes, and can either hit a teammate with a crisp breakout pass or carry the puck out himself. His stride is efficient, and with just a few powerful steps, he’s in open space and kickstarting the rush.

Playing for the powerhouse London Knights, Brzustewicz often joins the offensive attack — and with teammates like Easton Cowan and Denver Barkey leading the charge, who can blame him? His offensive instincts are sharp, and though he loves to activate, he has the skating ability to recover and shut down rushes the other way.

Brzustewicz took a major step forward this season. After a quiet rookie campaign that saw him post just 6 points in 52 games, he broke out in 2024–25 with 42 points in 67 games — all while playing second-pair minutes behind Sam Dickinson and Oliver Bonk. He’s grown into a larger role and made the most of the opportunity.

Offensively, he’s got a quick, accurate wrist shot from the point that he consistently gets through traffic. Whether it’s going in himself or generating rebounds for his teammates, Brzustewicz knows how to create offence. And at just 18 years old, he’s only going to get better.

According to OHL Writers, “Henry Brzustewicz is undoubtedly a player to watch as the 2025 NHL Draft approaches. With his skill set, physical attributes, and strong hockey bloodlines, he has the potential to make an impact in the NHL.”

Right-shot defencemen with his kind of upside are in high demand. With his offensive mindset and natural skating ability, Brzustewicz projects as a top-four defenceman who can quarterback a power play — the type of role Erik Karlsson played in his Ottawa days.

Of course, nothing is guaranteed at the draft. But for a Jets team that’s lacking depth on the back end, Henry Brzustewicz could be the spark the blueline prospect pool desperately needs.