Naudins aims to keep Latvia in NHL draft first round after Schmitt's selection
Latvian forward Roberts Naudins has caught the attention of Elite Prospects scouts ahead of the draft season, with experts describing him as a 1.99m talent capable of going in the first round. He is set to join the WHL next and has already committed to Michigan in the NCAA.
Elite Prospects has published a scouting evaluation of Latvian forward Roberts Naudins, saying the player deserves more visibility before the draft. Experts see a 1.99-meter forward with high-level skating, good tactical awareness and a strong understanding of how to move with the puck.
According to analysts, Naudins has the ability to execute difficult passes and read plays well. They believe that if he improves his playmaking, NHL teams could view him as a top-20 draft talent and a unique forward who can be effective at both ends of the ice.
Naudins has represented Latvia at two IIHF U20 world championships. In his latest appearance he picked up an assist in five games, including a helper in a win over Denmark; a year earlier he also recorded 0+1 in five games. His numbers were identical at the 2025 U18 world championship, but he skipped the 2026 edition of that tournament.
The forward previously played in Switzerland before moving to the United States in 2024. He joined Shattuck St. Mary's School, whose alumni include Teodors Bļugers, Sidney Crosby and Zach Parise. Naudins finished his last season with 74 points in 51 games, ranking second on the team. Now he is heading to Canada to play for Penticton Vees of the Western Hockey League, with a future spot lined up at the University of Michigan, one of the strongest NCAA hockey programs.
Latvian interest in the first round is high because Albert Šmits was selected fifth overall by the New York Rangers this year. He became only the second Latvian ever drafted in the opening round, after Zemgus Girgensons went 14th to Buffalo in 2012. Naudins could make it two years in a row if he reaches his ceiling.
