The U.S. National Team Development Program, or USNTDP, is a system that allows American Hockey to retain control over the development of their best young players. While some prospects still escape their nets despite the scouting and tryouts that constitute the selection process, most of the country's elite talent spends some time in the program.
This year's edition of the U-18 group is exceptionally strong. The early arrival of 16-year-old Jack Hughes plays a part in that, but the prospects eligible for the 2018 draft look to be very promising as well, drawing scouts from all over the NHL.