Why Mason West is “the biggest wildcard in the draft,” and why NHL teams are torn over his football future

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently referred to West as “the biggest wildcard in the draft” during the 32 Thoughts podcast. That label has stuck, and for good reason. West is not just a promising hockey player; he is also a high-level football athlete, still planning to play another season of high school football.

This unusual dual-sport path is rare among top NHL prospects, adding an extra layer of complexity to his draft profile.

NHL teams worry that Mason West may choose football

Mason West’s football commitments are causing real concern among front offices. While scouts admire his growing dedication to hockey, they remain cautious about whether he’ll ultimately pursue it as a career. The possibility that West could shift fully to football, especially if he receives an offer to play quarterback at the next level, makes him a risky early-round investment.Elliotte Friedman also pointed out that West might be working harder at hockey only because of doubts about playing quarterback beyond high school. That has not been enough to ease nerves among NHL executives, who fear using a pick only to see him walk away from the sport. West’s willingness to risk injury by continuing in football adds to the concern.

Mason West's combined feedback fuels intrigue

Despite the doubts, Mason West made a strong impression at the NHL Draft Combine.

According to insiders close to the event, West turned heads with his physical testing and interviews, reaffirming the potential that has teams so intrigued. Many believe his ceiling as a hockey player is enormous, if he chooses to stay on that path.Read more: Paulina Gretzky’s bold bikini photo sparks attention as fans say she’s ‘unbothered’ and shining on her termsHis draft-day outcome remains unpredictable. Some clubs may gamble a mid-round pick, while others could hope he goes undrafted and becomes a free agent target. Either way, Mason West is dominating conversations not for what he’s done, but for what he might become. He is a rare case where raw potential and uncertainty are equally powerful forces shaping draft night decisions.