The first round of the NHL Entry Draft is scheduled for this Friday evening in Los Angeles. This year marks a change, as team personnel will not be gathered in a central location, eliminating the usual draft floor buzz of observing team interactions and movements. However, the drafted players will be present, which should still provide interesting visuals.
Beyond the widely recognized top prospects, Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa, the rest of the 2025 draft class presents considerable uncertainty, with no clear consensus on the rankings after the first two selections. This volatility across team draft boards suggests there could be significant movement of picks, particularly in the first round. Teams holding multiple first-round picks might make selections that raise eyebrows depending on who is still available, and those looking to move up or down based on player availability could be active.
For this final mock draft projection, we will assume teams retain their picks, though potential selections by acquiring teams will be noted where trades are rumored. For example, teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets, Utah Mammoth, Boston Bruins, and Vancouver Canucks are potential candidates to trade their first-round selections for immediate roster help, and these possibilities are taken into account.
The purpose of a mock draft is not to identify the “best” players overall, but rather to predict which players teams are most likely to select based on team needs and how they are perceived by the drafting club. In essence, this exercise focuses on “who is most likely to be chosen if the pick isn`t traded,” rather than “who I would pick if I were the General Manager.”
With that in mind, here is the final projection for the first 32 selections:
1. New York Islanders
Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)
This selection is straightforward and requires no overthinking. While the story of James Hagens, a Long Island native and Islanders fan, is compelling (and will be discussed later), Schaefer is widely regarded as the undisputed top player in this draft class.
Many scouts project him to become a foundational defenseman capable of influencing play significantly at both ends of the ice. The Islanders face uncertainty on their defensive corps with Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov needing new contracts, neither of whom are expected to sign inexpensive deals, and both have been mentioned in trade rumors. Against this backdrop, the Islanders clearly see Schaefer as their future anchor on defense. If they keep Dobson, Schaefer`s arrival would allow Dobson to shift to a role perhaps more suited to him, alleviating some of his current workload.
Schaefer missed most of his draft year due to injury, and he would likely benefit from a season in the NCAA for continued development. However, that seems improbable. Even without it, the Islanders can confidently expect him to step into a significant role in their lineup as a rookie. It wouldn`t be surprising to see Schaefer quarterbacking the power play, logging top-four minutes, and becoming a consistent fixture on the Islanders` blue line early in the season.
2. San Jose Sharks
Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)
There appears to be some uncertainty surrounding the Sharks entering draft weekend. They have a clear need on defense and are also reportedly interested in Anton Frondell, a center. However, passing on a talent like Misa for any reason would be ill-advised. While a gap exists between Schaefer and Misa, the difference in talent between Misa and the subsequent tier of players is even more significant.
Adding a dynamic offensive threat with strong two-way capabilities to a young lineup already featuring Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith is incredibly exciting. Misa is versatile enough to play either center or wing, but his defensive awareness is particularly valuable at center, offering the Sharks a formidable one-two punch down the middle for years to come. A top-six forward group including Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Misa—all aged 22 or younger—provides the Sharks with a potent attack and reliable two-way forwards driving play through the center of the ice for the foreseeable future.
Misa brings dynamic scoring ability, excellent speed, elite hockey sense, and a relentless style of play. It`s within the realm of possibility that he could step directly into the lineup this season and have a similar impact to Celebrini`s rookie year in 2024-25, given that Misa is such a complete player with professional habits across the ice.
3. Chicago Blackhawks
Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
This is where the draft becomes considerably more unpredictable. Rumors suggest Chicago might trade this pick, but if they keep it, Frondell or Porter Martone appear to be the most likely choices. While Hagens might be the highest-ranked player available, Chicago reportedly favors a larger forward to complement Connor Bedard.
In this scenario, Chicago hopes Frondell can slot into the lineup behind Bedard, providing two-way value with an elite shot release and the knack for finding open ice to get his shot off. Frondell would benefit from another season of development outside the NHL to become a more complete play driver before making the jump.
When he is ready, the Blackhawks can position Frondell opposite Bedard on the power play, giving them two players with elite shot releases on their flanks. Ideally, Frondell will anchor the second line as a powerful two-way center, providing Chicago with a strong one-two punch for years.
4. Utah Mammoth
Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
There`s a real possibility Utah trades this selection. If they do, Hagens is expected to be the pick by the acquiring team. However, Utah has expressed a desire for “hard skill,” and two players fit that description: Caleb Desnoyers and Brady Martin. Both are genuine options for the Mammoth, who aim to add some physicality to a top six that includes Clayton Keller, Logan Cooley, and Dylan Guenther.
It`s well-known that Martin ranks highly on Utah`s list, a status solidified by the excellent impression he made during his meeting with Mammoth brass at the scouting combine. Martin, a “farm boy,” is drawing attention from several teams, including the Flyers and Bruins. Some project him as a Sam Bennett-type player—someone who produces modestly during the regular season but transforms into a “mammoth” presence in the playoffs. Utah believes their top lineup needs more tenacity, and among the players available at this spot, Martin brings the most physicality.
5. Nashville Predators
Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)
No team has scouted Martone as extensively as Nashville, with upper management frequently attending his games. Martone possibly possesses the best hockey sense and vision in this draft class, and is also considered among the best in terms of puck skill. Combine an elite shot with his playmaking ability, and you have a 6-foot-3 forward who offers both hard and soft skill, boasting an extremely high ceiling.
While he may not replicate Mikko Rantanen, Rantanen is his second-closest comparable in my analytical model, alongside Cole Caufield—based on NHL potential, not physical size, obviously. If you are Preds GM Barry Trotz, you would encourage Martone to develop his physical game into an imposing force, creating the foundation for a dual-threat forward who will be challenging for opponents to contain. If Nashville doesn`t select Martone, Trotz has indicated he values upside and skill. If he truly prioritizes that, Hagens appears to be the player. However, there`s a subtle feeling that Nashville might acquire an NHL player and more from the Islanders in exchange for this pick if Hagens is still available.
6. Philadelphia Flyers
James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)
The Flyers` most significant need is at center. If Hagens is still available for them at No. 6, they should adopt a similar strategy to their selection of Matvei Michkov and take the player who unexpectedly fell to them. The prospect of adding both Michkov and Hagens to their top forward group without having to draft in the top five in either year would be immensely valuable to the organization.
Hagens would immediately become the Flyers` top center prospect. The team isn`t under pressure to rush him through college, as Sean Couturier, Noah Cates, and the recently acquired Trevor Zegras are already on the NHL roster. When he is prepared, Hagens can join the team to provide a much-needed offensive spark. His speed, puck handling, and exceptional playmaking abilities will complement Michkov well, especially if Hagens regains his play-driving capabilities in another season at Boston College. The finer points of his game will earn him the coach`s trust, allowing him to become a key contributor to the Flyers` offense for years to come.
7. Boston Bruins
Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)
This is another pick that could potentially be traded. However, if the Bruins retain the selection, Desnoyers would be an ideal fit for the organization. A French-Canadian two-way center with exceptional shutdown ability, who performs well in crucial moments and demonstrates leadership, should sound quite familiar and appealing to Bruins fans.
Desnoyers is accustomed to winning and consistently performs at his best when the stakes are highest. He excels in difficult areas, is a skilled playmaker, and possesses high-end hockey sense. His defensive game is already at an NHL-ready level, and if he can improve his speed, the Bruins will have a legitimate offensive threat capable of handling tough defensive assignments in critical situations.
8. Seattle Kraken
Jake O`Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)
There is a widely acknowledged group of six players following Schaefer and Misa at the top of the draft. Seattle will likely select whoever is available from that group. However, the Kraken also need defensive prospects, and it`s conceivable they might trade back a few spots into the range where Radim Mrtka and Jackson Smith are expected to be selected.
If they remain at No. 8, I predict O`Brien will be the pick, unless they opt for Roger McQueen. Seattle is already quite deep in young centers with Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Berkly Catton all aged 22 or under. O`Brien is a highly talented player and his addition might allow the Kraken to move Catton to wing in the top six.
O`Brien brings more elite playmaking ability than Wright and Beniers and will have the necessary time to physically mature and add speed to reach his potential as a playmaking top-six center. He should develop into a potent playmaker who directs the power play and significantly benefits his wingers.
9. Buffalo Sabres
Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)
The Sabres have a decent prospect pool but particularly need high-end center and right-shot defense prospects. Both Mrtka and McQueen should be available at this pick, but the large defenseman seems to be their preferred choice.
The 6-foot-6 right-shot defenseman possesses projectable mobility and quality transition defense, potentially making him an ideal partner for Rasmus Dahlin or Owen Power. Adding Mrtka provides the Sabres with another promising defenseman with the potential for shutdown ability as the organization aims to end the NHL`s longest playoff drought.
10. Anaheim Ducks
Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)
The Ducks are strong candidates to trade this pick for current NHL assistance; GM Pat Verbeek has already been notably active this offseason. However, if they keep the pick, selecting a towering center who is considered a top-five talent in this draft makes considerable sense.
The Ducks had dinner with McQueen at the combine and appear to have conducted extensive research into his back injury. If the Ducks are confident it won`t pose a long-term issue, adding a powerful 6-foot-5 center with the potential to become a dominant two-way force is an easy decision. The primary limitation on McQueen`s ceiling is whether his body can withstand the rigors of the game. If it can, he could potentially be one of the best players to emerge from this draft class. That potential reward is worth the risk for the Ducks.
11. Pittsburgh Penguins
Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)
Holding back-to-back picks, the Penguins might attempt to trade up for an elite prospect—their combined pick value is nearly equivalent to the No. 3 pick, so moving up is likely being considered. If that doesn`t happen, the Penguins have an opportunity to significantly enhance their pipeline with two key players.
If McQueen is available, they will likely consider him seriously. However, adding Smith to their defensive depth would be a solid move for the Penguins, who currently have Owen Pickering and Harrison Brunicke as defensive prospects. Smith is large, physical, and possesses legitimate offensive upside. He should be capable of playing in a matchup role and driving offense from the backend. He demonstrates poise with the puck and will be geographically close to Penguins management while attending Penn State.
There is much to appreciate about the package Smith brings, and the Penguins could certainly benefit from a player with his combination of size, skating, poise, and offensive potential.
12. Pittsburgh Penguins (from New York Rangers)
Viktor Eklund, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
The Penguins secure another player with top-10 talent potential here with Eklund. Carter Bear and Lynden Lakovic are also potential options, both possessing outstanding offensive talent.
As for Eklund, his style of play translates well to the NHL, and he has the potential to achieve 70-plus points in a top-line role. His excellent forechecking, willingness to engage physically, fearlessness in driving to the net-front area, and two-way play provide him with the attributes to become a player similar to Seth Jarvis.
He is likely to be NHL-ready relatively soon, which is a factor for a team with as many veterans as the Penguins. Having Eklund learn from future Hall of Famers during the later stages of their careers could have a lasting developmental impact that propels Eklund towards his ceiling as a first-line forward.
13. Detroit Red Wings
Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)
The Red Wings have a specific player profile they target, and fortunately for them, several players in this draft range fit that mold: Bear, Eklund, and Justin Carbonneau. At least two, if not all three, could be available at this spot.
Bear`s elite instincts and playmaking ability are attractive to many teams, including Detroit. Combined with one of the best competitive drives in the draft class, Bear possesses all the characteristics of a forward who can drive play, offering reliable two-way performance, similar to Zach Hyman.
The Red Wings have promising young centers, and Bear`s blend of playmaking and net-front finishing could see him become a key player on the power play and an offensive facilitator. He would be an excellent fit for the Red Wings as a player projected to be a top-six contributor.
14. Columbus Blue Jackets
Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)
There is a distinct possibility that Columbus trades this pick for immediate help. However, if they don`t, this pick feels like the latest Aitcheson would be selected, given the Blue Jackets` need to strengthen their defensive prospects.
Although Logan Hensler is likely also being considered—and they reportedly like him significantly—there are few scenarios where Aitcheson would still be available for the Jackets` second pick at No. 20, making this selection logical here.
In Aitcheson, the Blue Jackets acquire a raw defenseman with the potential to develop into a formidable presence on the ice while providing two-way value. As one of the less polished prospects, Aitcheson requires time to develop, but his skill set offers strong reasons to believe he can become a middle-pair defenseman who is challenging to play against, particularly in the playoffs.
15. Vancouver Canucks
Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)
It`s perhaps the worst-kept secret in hockey that Vancouver is seeking a center. The Canucks had dinner with Cootes at the combine, have scouted him extensively throughout the season, and were very impressed by his composure during the combine process. Jack Nesbitt could also be considered here because the Canucks value centers with size, but Cootes and Cole Reschny are believed to have higher ceilings.
Cootes is projected to become a middle-six center with reliable two-way ability, excellent instincts away from the puck, and consistent production in the range of 55 to 65 points per season. If Aitcheson were available, they might find the big, imposing defenseman difficult to pass up.
16. Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames)
Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)
The Canadiens already have a dynamic offensive presence on their blue line in Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson, and Reid could be an ideal partner for him. Montreal management scouted Reid heavily this season, leading many to believe he is a target for one of the team`s two first-round selections. The Canadiens are another team that could consider Aitcheson, but Reid`s ability to drive play through excellent skating and sound decision-making is difficult to overlook.
He possesses the tools to develop into a solid top-four defenseman and doesn`t need to overly extend himself offensively to provide value. He is perceived as less risky than some other available defensemen, offering projectable offense and excellent mobility that enhances his transition game.
17. Montreal Canadiens
Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
I personally rank Carbonneau higher than many others do, primarily because I believe he possesses sky-high potential as a power forward. With Juraj Slafkovsky already in their lineup, the Habs need to add more size to complement players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Ivan Demidov.
Carbonneau has the potential to develop into a dual-threat forward in a top-six role, demonstrating high-end creativity. If everything aligns for him and his decision-making improves, there is a chance Carbonneau could become a powerful, play-driving forward. The Habs` development staff is strong and has a track record of excellent work. Given Carbonneau`s significant upside, he represents a worthwhile risk for the hometown team.
18. Calgary Flames (from New Jersey Devils)
Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)
Calgary needs to add depth at center in their prospect pool, and Reschny offers good value in this draft range. He is a quality playmaker who facilitates offense and possesses arguably the best hockey sense among the centers available at this point. He lacks ideal size and will need to play more physically inside the ice to reach his potential as a second-line center, but the offensive tools are clearly present.
The detailed aspects of his game are nearly NHL-ready, including good success in puck battles, effective connective play, and strong forechecking. There is potential for him to become a dual-threat player who can both make plays and shoot, which is a characteristic the Flames value.
19. St. Louis Blues
Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)
The Blues have utilized a significant portion of their prime draft capital on defense in recent years, and the pressing need for centers in their pipeline cannot be overlooked.
Nesbitt has garnered considerable praise from executives since the scouting combine and could realistically be selected within the top 20. The large center is likely to project as a third-line, two-way checking forward but could see enhanced offensive potential if he improves his speed. At 6-foot-4, he brings size, strength, physicality, and the ability to effectively shut down opponents. These attributes make him attractive to many teams, including the Blues.
20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota Wild)
Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)
It`s not out of the question for the Blue Jackets to select another defenseman with their second first-round pick, and I believe it is more probable than not. Lynden Lakovic would be a strong consideration if he is available, but Hensler is someone the Columbus management reportedly highly values.
He is a skilled defender in the neutral zone and transition game due to his excellent mobility, which allows him to proactively engage opponents and maintain tight gaps. The right-shot defenseman has the potential to become a quality No. 2 or 3 defenseman if he reaches his ceiling and continues to develop his offensive game.
21. Ottawa Senators
Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw (WHL)
Lakovic makes a lot of sense for the Senators. Management seems to be very keen on the big, dual-threat winger who possesses untapped physical potential. He is intelligent, moves remarkably well for his 6-foot-4 frame, and should be able to develop chemistry in the top six, regardless of which center he plays with.
If Lakovic can develop his physicality, the Senators would have a legitimate dual-threat scorer with a power game who should be a difference-maker for the team.
22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado Avalanche)
Daniil Prokhorov, F, St. Petersburg (MHL)
The “freight train on skates” is building significant momentum heading into Friday night`s first round, and there is a consensus that many teams admire his playing style and believe he will be selected in the early 20s. Teams with multiple first-round selections often take bigger swings with some of their picks, and Prokhorov certainly fits that description.
The Flyers are likely to take a significant gamble with at least one of their first-rounders. A large, intensely physical player with raw offensive abilities that could translate into a power forward is exactly the kind of talent that a coach like Rick Tocchet would be excited to develop.
23. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning)
Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
Given their draft positions at fifth and 23rd, it is highly likely the Predators will select a forward with the No. 5 pick, assuming they don`t trade it. However, considering their defensive prospect pool is relatively thin, Boumedienne makes a lot of sense for them at this spot.
Trotz is known for taking chances on potential upside, and Boumedienne possesses the most upside among the defensemen available in this range. He has legitimate offensive potential, is an effective passer in breakouts, and is capable of playing a two-way transition game on a second defensive pairing. If Logan Hensler were available, he would be a major consideration, and Blake Fiddler is also likely in the discussion, though Boumedienne and Hensler are perceived as higher-upside options.
24. Los Angeles Kings
Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)
As noted in my analysis of prospect pool needs, the Kings have very little depth in terms of defensive prospects. Fortunately for them, a 6-foot-5 right-shot defenseman with NHL bloodlines is available for selection in this scenario.
Fiddler is a mobile skater who effectively shuts down plays in transition. He has above-average puck retrieval skills and is projected to become a reliable shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. This draft range is appropriate for Fiddler, and he fits perfectly with the Kings` requirements. He will have time to develop into the large, shutdown player the Kings will need in the coming years.
25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs)
Vaclav Nestrasil, F, Muskegon (USHL)
Increasingly, I am hearing that teams are optimistic about Nestrasil`s potential as a skilled power forward. At 6-foot-5, he adds much-needed size to the Blackhawks` prospect pool without sacrificing potential upside.
He is a longer-term development project, but the combination of passing, hockey sense, and playmaking is appealing. His potential as a power forward with high-end upside is tantalizing, especially given his room to fill out his frame. If he learns to effectively utilize his physicality, he could become a winger who creates space and is capable of playing in the top six as a dual-threat player with a quality shot release. The upside here is worth the risk for a Chicago team that lacks a large power forward prospect.
26. Nashville Predators (from Vegas Golden Knights, via SJ)
Malcolm Spence, F, Erie (OHL)
Once considered a top-10 prospect, Spence would be an excellent addition to the Predators` prospect pool. I could see them selecting goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen here, but there`s speculation he might still be available when they pick again at No. 35.
Spence brings a good combination of speed, physicality, and relentless two-way play. He is the type of player who will pursue pucks, create space, forecheck effectively to force turnovers, and perform well in critical situations. Spence has more offensive potential to unlock, and there is a real chance he could develop into a pesky, second-line winger capable of handling tough matchups. The Predators do not currently have a prospect quite like Spence, and he would represent good value if he can return to the form he showed last season.
27. Washington Capitals
Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)
The Capitals have a distinct drafting preference, and they enjoy taking high-upside swings. Their prospect pool is in significant need of centers. While Milton Gastrin might be a more reliable option, selecting Kindel, who recorded 99 points in the WHL this season, at No. 27 represents excellent value.
Many project Kindel to play wing at the NHL level, but he possesses the hockey sense, playmaking ability, and speed to potentially play center in the NHL. Kindel`s draft-year profile is quite similar to Brayden Point`s. While Kindel may not ultimately become Brayden Point, the prospect of that potential makes him well worth this selection.
28. Winnipeg Jets
Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)
The Jets` prospect pool is notably thin on defense, and their scouts have spent considerable time watching the London team, so Brzustewicz will be well-known to them.
As the season progressed, Brzustewicz demonstrated offensive instincts with his puck movement and ability to join the rush. There is significant room for offensive growth, and he is expected to be London`s primary defenseman next season. The right-shot blueliner provides the Jets with a defenseman projected to be effective in transition, with good puck-moving and skating skills, who should comfortably fit on the second defensive pairing down the road.
29. Carolina Hurricanes
Ryker Lee, F, Madison (USHL)
The Hurricanes have a specific drafting profile, focusing on prospects with high-end skill and projectable upside. It feels likely they will choose between Ryker Lee and Cullen Potter.
Lee`s statistical profile is slightly better, and he possesses elite playmaking ability, puck skill, a powerful shot, and offensive instincts. His capacity to identify open areas and release a shot or make a precise play is expected to translate to the NHL. His skating needs to improve to fully leverage these talents, but given that skating is arguably the most coachable trait, Lee`s skill package makes him a potential home run pick.
30. San Jose Sharks (from Dallas Stars)
Cullen Potter, F, Arizona State (NCAA)
If Potter is still available at this point, adding the fastest player in the draft would provide excellent value for the Sharks.
While they might ideally prefer to draft a defenseman, Potter is too valuable an asset for a rebuilding team to pass up. His promising development at the NCAA level could see him become another piece of a highly skilled top six in San Jose. There is still room for Potter to grow, and given his development in the two-way game, the speedy forward with an excellent shot release provides the young Sharks with another offensive player who has projectable defensive qualities.
31. Philadelphia Flyers (from Edmonton Oilers)
Bill Zonnon, F, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Adding a forward who performs well in the playoffs, possesses two-way ability, and plays with a relentless style feels like a perfect fit for the Philadelphia Flyers organization.
Zonnon exhibits some of the best attention to detail in the draft class, with excellent forechecking, good defensive instincts, and a willingness to go into difficult areas to win battles. He plays one of the more translatable games among the remaining players and consistently gives maximum effort.
The Flyers will need players who can fill these roles as they look to contend in the future, and Zonnon has projectable offensive playmaking traits. If he can improve his skating through development of his stride mechanics, there is a clear path for him to become a fan favorite playing in the middle six forward group.
32. Calgary Flames (from Florida Panthers)
Milton Gastrin, F, MoDo (J20 Nationell)
If Calgary selects Reschny with their first pick, it is probable they will choose another center with this selection.
Gastrin has a relatively safe projection as a bottom-six center. He is more of a play driver than he is often given credit for and has demonstrated the ability to compete effectively against highly skilled players. He is a high-floor prospect who showed flashes of greater offensive ability than previously anticipated this season. At a minimum, his instincts and supportive puck play should enable him to become a reliable checking line player whom a coach can trust in key situations.
Gareth Tenby