With the 67th overall pick of the 2024 NHL Draft, the Chicago Blackhawks selected center John Mustard.
John Mustard, C
6-1, 185
DOB: Aug. 16, 2006
Shoots: Left
2023-24 Team: Waterloo (USHL)
Ranked #46 by CONSOLIDATED RANKING
Ranked #62 by ELITEPROSPECTS.COM
Ranked #58 by TSN/BOB McKENZIE
Ranked #68 by TSN/CRAIG BUTTON
Ranked #40 by THN/FERRARI
Ranked #50 by THN/KENNEDY
Ranked #54 by MCKEEN’S HOCKEY
Ranked #39 by FLOHOCKEY/CHRIS PETERS
Ranked #49 by FCHOCKEY
Ranked #48 by DAILY FACEOFF
Ranked #27 by NHL CENTRAL SCOUTING (NA Skaters)
Ranked #50 by HPR/MALLOY
Ranked #43 by DRAFT PROSPECTS HOCKEY
Ranked #57 by SPORTSNET/BUKALA
Ranked #35 by RECRUIT SCOUTING
Ranked #47 by DOBBERPROSPECTS
Ranked #36 by SMAHT SCOUTING
I mocked Mustard to the Blackhawks in the second round previously. He was the best skater in this year’s draft class, so another that fits the model. He’ll play at Providence College this fall.
From NHL Central Scouting: “Just completed his first USHL season. A good-sized forward that quickly established himself as a scoring threat whether at five-on-five or on special teams. Excellent speed and agility to go with his tenacious effort. Can score from in close or from distance with his quick/accurate shot. Applies pressure on the forecheck by smartly reading the play and anticipating where the puck will get to. Has a high hockey IQ and plays a strong two-way game.“
From Corey Pronman: “Mustard had a great season in Waterloo after coming up from U16 hockey in New Jersey the prior season. He’s one of the best skaters in the draft. Mustard is a burner. Not a Sunday barbeque burner, but one who will get by NHL defensemen consistently. He attacks constantly with his skating and skill and creates a lot of offense off the rush. He’s skilled but I appreciate how he doesn’t try to hot dog too much with the puck. Mustard has a good wrist shot, and relishes the opportunity to use it. He plays a strong north/south game, but he doesn’t make a ton of plays to others. His compete is okay. He isn’t overly physical and doesn’t kill penalties but his effort is good enough. If that part of his game improves he has a clear path to being a regular NHL player but his skating should get him games.“
From Scott Wheeler: “Mustard was one of the top players in 16U AAA hockey last year and immediately became one of the top rookies in the USHL in his draft year, stepping right in to become Waterloo’s leading goal scorer (29 in 60 games) and a real driver. He’s a tremendous skater who uses his speed to get out in transition, turn defenders with the puck, get on pucks and win races. A Providence commit, he should fit well with the Friars’ staff and identity as a hardworking forward who gets after it. He’s also shown some skill, a quick release and a hard wrister, and is just a month away from eligibility for the 2025 NHL Draft. His athleticism, skating, competitiveness and well-rounded skill will carry him a long way. If he can continue to develop his feel for the game, he’ll be an NHLer.“