Jack Murtagh – 2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile

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Jack Murtagh

2024-25 Team: United States National Team Development Program U18 Team
Date of Birth: Aug 22, 2007
Place of Birth: East Greenbush, NY
Ht: 6-foot-1 Wt: 199 pounds
Shoots: L
Position: C/LW
NHL Draft Eligibility: first-year eligible

Rankings

The first word that comes to mind when you mention Jack Murtagh is workhorse. He plays an uncomplicated game and has no problem doing the dirty work on the forecheck or along the wall. Playing for the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP,) Murtagh had 16 goals and 21 assists in 53 games. One of the main traits you notice about Murtagh is his willingness to play in front of the net. The Boston University commit has the desirable combination of will and skill and is never afraid to get the puck to the net.

Jack Murtagh Team USA
Jack Murtagh, Team USA (Rena Laverty / USA Hockey’s NTDP)

Murtagh does not stand out as an elite stick handler, but he has showcased quick hands to avoid stick checks, extend plays, and move the puck into better areas. His shot carries a lot of power, especially on his one-timer. He is a straight-line puck carrier and shooter who plays with great pace and intensity. He is also an active playmaker, keeping his head on a swivel as he attacks downhill.

Related: THW’s 2025 NHL Draft Guide

The 17-year-old is a strong skater and his speed and agility allow him to push the pace and attack defenders head-on. His speed is top-end, as he has an extra gear that allows him to separate and beat defenders. He is a strong athlete who can play through strong strides and push tempo in straight lines or round corners with speed to get to his spots. While his skating is technically strong and effective, it lacks some explosiveness to be able to shift pace quickly.

His shot is also a strength as he gets it off quickly and can do it at top speed. Murtagh has a dangerous and deceptive in-motion NHL release, which he hides well pre-shot. He also has an effective one-timer in his arsenal, which he has used well for the USNTDP on the power play. His shot, speed, and strength make him a formidable offensive force.

Murtagh is a dynamic forward and brings much to a team, but could use some improvements in his transition game. He tends to be an onlooker, looking to his linemates to lead the rush. He also needs to work on his defensive game, but overall, Murtagh is a physical forward who competes hard, carrying pucks through traffic while absorbing contact well.

Jack Murtagh – NHL Draft Projection

The majority of rankings indicate that he should be selected at the end of the first or the beginning of the second round. His NHL-ready skating and dynamic offensive skill set could make him the first player from his prominent, highly-featured organization to be selected on draft day in June.

Quotables

“Murtagh is the kind of player NHL teams were searching for at the trade deadline this year. He’s a physical forward who makes himself noticeable with his relentless compete.” Jason Bukala – Sportsnet

“While he didn’t stand out as an elite stickhandler, he showcased quick hands to avoid stick checks, extend plays, and move the puck into better areas. His shot carries a lot of power, especially on his one-timers. Away from the puck, he positions himself well in open space and occasionally goes to the net front to serve as a screen. Overall, he is a well-rounded offensive player both with and without the puck.” — FC Hockey scout Kyle Pereira

“Murtagh has shown enough skill with the puck to earn some serious first-round consideration this year. because he’s been one of the best – if not, THE best – player in most games so far this year. Murtagh has a lethal shot and plays well on the rush, and I think he would shine a lot more had he had better linemates to work with this year.” Steven Ellis – Daily Faceoff

“He missed nine games because of a shoulder injury earlier this season but has worked his way back into form and has 35 points (15 goals, 20 assists) and four power-play goals in 34 games with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 team. Murtagh can play center but likely will make more of an impact on the wing at the NHL level. He plays with pace and can really move the puck.” Mike Morreale – NHL.com

Strengths

  • Great shot with a quick release
  • Strong skating skills
  • Competes hard
  • Improving playmaking abilities

Under Construction- Improvements to Make

  • Defensive engagement
  • Decision-making with the puck
  • Puck passing efficiency

NHL Potential

Murtagh’s improving playmaking game, incessant motor and physicality, and established goalscoring potency offer a variety of strengths that could easily see him as a bottom-six checking forward while showing the potential of developing top-six power forward skills.

Risk- Reward Analysis

Risk- 2/5, Reward 4/5

Fantasy Hockey Potential

Offense- 6.5/10, Defense 4.5/10

Awards/Achievements

  • Silver Medal – U17 WHC

Jack Murtagh Stats

Videos

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