Evaluating the 2025 NHL Draft Results

The 2025 NHL Entry Draft, which felt exceptionally prolonged, has finally concluded. A significant portion of the league voted for a decentralized format, a decision this analysis gives a “Z” grade – not an “F,” but a “Z,” hoping this decentralized approach is never repeated. A return to a centralized draft process would be much welcomed.

Draft grades are assigned to every team, regardless of the number of prospects they selected. These evaluations are based on the perceived value each team gained from their picks. Consequently, a team with multiple early-round selections might receive a lower grade than a team with fewer overall picks if the former selected players significantly later than their projected value, missing opportunities to add more high-end talent. Conversely, a team with fewer picks might earn a higher grade by consistently selecting players who provided excellent value and talent at their draft positions.

The grading process considers the reasonable expectations for each team`s selections, informed by analytical models and team needs. Selecting a player earlier than their projected value to fill a specific team need, while potentially leaving a higher-ranked prospect available, will negatively impact a team`s grade. Teams drafting early in the first round typically finished low in the standings and urgently require significant talent injections. Similarly, teams with multiple first-round picks often acquired them by trading valuable established players as part of a rebuild or retooling strategy, emphasizing the need for valuable additions.

Trade outcomes are also factored into the assessment. A strategy of trading down to acquire more picks and successfully extracting value from those later selections is generally viewed favorably and may result in a higher grade compared to a team that traded up to secure a specific target. For instance, the Montreal Canadiens` decision to trade multiple draft assets to acquire and extend top-four defenseman Noah Dobson is considered in their grade, as they utilized draft capital to obtain an asset aligning with their organizational objectives.

Below are the grades for each team following the 2025 draft:

`A` Grades

New York Islanders
Grade: A+

The Islanders earned an A+ for their Day 1 performance alone, demonstrating an incredible draft. Selecting Matthew Schaefer, a future franchise defenseman, will not only enhance the team`s play but also likely provide a future captain. Their skillful handling of the Noah Dobson situation, trading the defenseman who wasn`t going to re-sign for picks used to select the sliding Victor Eklund and potential middle-pairing defender Kashawn Aitcheson, significantly boosted their grade.

New York avoided overthinking their selections, consistently picking high-quality players in the first round who are confidently projected to be impactful NHLers. They potentially added a franchise cornerstone, a top-six forward blending skill and physicality, and a tough-to-play-against defenseman with offensive potential.

On Day 2, GM Mathieu Darche continued to build the prospect pool with NHL-ready talent. Daniil Prokhorov has the upside to become a high-end power forward, and Luca Romano is expected to play a middle-six role in the NHL. Tomas Poletin represents a reasonable bet on offensive upside, and Burke Hood taken in the later rounds is excellent value. This draft class has the potential to be franchise-altering for the Islanders.

Boston Bruins
Grade: A

The Bruins benefited from some unexpected selections early in the draft, successfully securing their future top-line center, James Hagens, arguably the third-best player available, at pick number seven. Boston has needed help down the middle for several seasons, and Hagens is on a trajectory to become an NHL star relatively soon. His selection represents one of the draft`s most valuable picks, as players of his talent and skill level are rarely available so late in the top 10.

Following up with William Moore and Cooper Simpson were selections that offered good value in their respective ranges, and both possess legitimate NHL upside. While they may take longer to reach the NHL, Boston`s strategy of accumulating talent with these two picks, along with Liam Pettersson on the backend, is commendable. There`s a strong probability that Boston could see four players from this draft class make the NHL, including a potential top-line star.

Carolina Hurricanes
Grade: A

It feels like a recurring theme, but the Carolina Hurricanes once again excelled at the draft. They extracted tremendous value from their trade back with the Canadiens, utilizing the acquired picks to draft two players with strong NHL projections: Semyon Frolov and Charlie Cerrato. Frolov`s standing improved throughout the season, giving him a realistic chance to become a valuable goaltender in a tandem. Both Ivan Ryabkin and Kurban Limatov provided significant value at their draft slots and possess credible paths to becoming NHL players, with Ryabkin having the potential to be a hidden gem if he enhances his consistency.

In the later rounds, the selections of Filip Ekberg and Viggo Nordlund were particularly impressive. Both are smaller, highly skilled wingers with NHL scoring potential. While there`s a boom-or-bust quality to them, if they reach their potential, they could provide top-six scoring upside – exactly the type of players worth taking a chance on in the later rounds. Although it`s likely that Hurricanes fans will need to wait a few years for these players to make an impact, the team should reasonably expect at least two or three players from this draft class to contribute at the NHL level.

San Jose Sharks
Grade: A

Adding the top-ranked forward (Michael Misa) and the best goaltender (Joshua Ravensbergen) in the draft is cause for significant optimism. The Sharks have a genuine opportunity to end up with a starting goaltender and an elite forward capable of scoring over a point per game from this draft alone, which would warrant at least a B+ grade. Furthermore, selecting Simon Wang, the highest-drafted Chinese-born player in NHL history, who possesses elite skating and a 6-foot-6 frame, allowed the Sharks to strengthen various areas of their prospect pool.

While I personally felt Blake Fiddler might have been a more conventional choice at pick 33, the Sharks opted for Wang`s raw talent and high potential, a decision that is understandable. If Wang develops successfully, he could become an impactful NHL defenseman highly sought after by other teams.

The selection of Cole McKinney at pick 53 was also excellent value. McKinney has untapped offensive potential and is projected to be a reliable bottom-six forward defensively and on the penalty kill. Ultimately, there`s a strong possibility the Sharks could see four players from this draft make the NHL, including a dynamic, two-way center who promises to make San Jose a difficult matchup for opponents for the next decade.

Anaheim Ducks
Grade: A-

Acquiring Roger McQueen, a player with top-five talent, at pick number 10 represents tremendous value for the Ducks. They add another large, powerful forward to their group of young players, and McQueen`s skill set is considered elite. If McQueen reaches his full potential, the Ducks could possess a unique player capable of dominating in all areas of the game.

Eric Nilson in the second round was another valuable selection. He is a solid prospect likely to become a bottom-six contributor the Ducks can rely on for secondary matchups and responsible defensive play. Elijah Neuenschwander is a promising goaltending prospect, and getting him in the later rounds adds to his value.

The Ducks likely added at least two quality NHL players to their organization and consistently found good value across the draft board. They also finally addressed the long-standing John Gibson trade rumors by moving the goaltender.

Note: If bonus points were awarded for synergy, the Ducks would undoubtedly receive an A+ for drafting McQueen, taking him to Disneyland, and arranging a photo opportunity with Lightning McQueen. There`s hope he chooses jersey number 95, as the potential for fun marketing connections would be abundant.

Calgary Flames
Grade: A-

The Flames not only addressed their organizational needs with this draft class but also secured significant value with the selections of Cullen Potter and Aiden Lane, while drafting Cole Reschny and Theo Stockselius within their appropriate ranges. All these players will require development time but are considered reasonable prospects to play in the NHL.

Reschny and Potter are picks with high offensive potential and NHL-level attributes that could see them make an impact in the middle six forwards. The Flames needed centers, and there`s a good chance that at least two of these prospects will provide value at that position. If Potter transitions to the wing, his speed and excellent shot could allow him to flourish.

Taking a chance on Aiden Lane late in the draft was a favorable move, as he is a late bloomer with potential for a bottom-six role. The Flames demonstrated strong value extraction with their selections throughout the weekend and should be pleased with the new influx of young talent.

Detroit Red Wings
Grade: A-

There is much to commend regarding the Red Wings` draft performance, likely adding at least two long-term NHL players in Carter Bear and Eddie Genborg. Bear represented good value in the teens, bringing a projectable two-way game with high-end playmaking ability. Additionally, he possesses the sought-after “hard skill,” excelling in physical areas, winning puck battles, and creating space for teammates. He is likely two or three years away but should develop into a quality top-six forward.

The selection of Genborg was also positive, identifying a solid middle-six player who thrives alongside skilled linemates. He is expected to become a valuable complementary player when ready.

After the top goaltenders were selected, the decision to draft Michal Pradel was a smart move. The Red Wings have a reasonable depth of goaltending prospects, and Pradel has the potential to join them in the NHL. I particularly appreciated the Michal Svrcek pick in the fourth round for his potential as a fast player with competitive drive. Combined with the trade for John Gibson, which provides immediate help, the Red Wings had a productive weekend.

Nashville Predators
Grade: A-

The Predators` draft performance presented a mixed picture for me. While they certainly acquired some high-end talent, they undeniably bypassed other prospects who also possessed elite potential.

I understand the decision to select Brady Martin and why many teams favored him, but Nashville, in need of elite skill, chose him over available players like James Hagens and Porter Martone. If Martin develops successfully, he will be a valuable playoff performer, but it is unlikely he will ultimately provide more value than Hagens or Martone.

I strongly approved of their selection of Ryker Lee, who could develop into an elite top-six forward if his skating improves. His offensive skill set is among the best in the draft class. Cameron Reid at pick 21 was a solid value pick and is projected to be a quality middle-pairing defenseman for years. I also really liked the selections of Jacob Rombach and Jack Ivankovic. The Predators needed a goaltender, and if Ivankovic grows physically, his existing talent base suggests he could become the best goaltender from this draft group.

Philadelphia Flyers
Grade: A-

Hold on tight, this was a wild ride! The Flyers were seeking a center but passed on Hagens, instead selecting Porter Martone. I admire Martone`s game and see considerable potential, but the choice seemed driven by a preference for size. Nevertheless, I won`t lower their grade for this pick, as Martone at pick number 6 offered excellent value. If his skating improves, he has the potential to become a star.

The decision to trade up to pick 13 for Jack Nesbitt not only meant passing on players with higher projected value but also saw the Flyers lose the trade value exchange to their state rivals. Nesbitt is likely to be a solid third-line center, but I have serious reservations about the Flyers drafting primarily for size when it results in a lower overall ceiling for the player.

Aside from that specific trade-up decision, I was impressed with the selections of Carter Amico, Jack Murtagh, Shane Vansaghi, and Matthew Gard. The Flyers clearly prioritized becoming bigger and tougher, as nearly every pick was used on a player possessing size and the competitive edge that aligns with coach Rick Tocchet`s preferences. The Flyers undoubtedly improved their prospect pool this weekend, though there`s little doubt that some higher-skill talent was overlooked.

Seattle Kraken
Grade: A-

The Kraken significantly improved their prospect pool this weekend, particularly with their initial two selections. Jake O`Brien is projected to be an offensively talented top-six playmaking center. Seattle already boasts considerable depth at center, and whether they move one or two players to the wing or trade one to address other needs, the Kraken are well-positioned because they consistently prioritize drafting the best available players.

Blake Fiddler is another instance of this strategy, with the Kraken securing a player with first-round talent in the second round. He is highly likely to develop into a middle-pairing defenseman capable of playing shutdown minutes. This selection not only addresses an organizational need but also provides excellent value.

The picks of Will Reynolds and Maxim Agafonov were also positive. Both possess some NHL-caliber attributes and represent worthwhile selections at the positions the Kraken took them. Overall, this was another successful draft for Seattle.

Winnipeg Jets
Grade: A-

I was very impressed with how the Jets utilized their draft capital. Adding Sascha Boumedienne significantly bolstered a prospect pool that was notably thin on defense. He is a mobile player who showed substantial improvement in his defensive game and is projected to become a quality middle-pairing defenseman and power-play specialist if his decision-making continues to improve.

Viktor Klingsell was a high-value addition when the Jets selected him. He was among the most skilled players available in the later rounds, representing exactly the type of prospect worth selecting in the fifth round. If he physically matures, there is the potential for him to become a middle-six player.

I also particularly liked the selections of Owen Martin and Jacob Cloutier. Martin plays a professional style of game that suggests he should develop into a depth player, while Cloutier is a worthwhile long-shot bet on a smaller player who is highly competitive and could be a valuable addition if his skating improves. Overall, the Jets found good value with all their picks, took chances on talent, and successfully enhanced their prospect pool.

`B` Grades

Chicago Blackhawks
Grade: B+

The Blackhawks clearly had a specific approach this draft: target “big players who can skate.”

While I favored Anton Frondell at pick number 3, selecting him instead of James Hagens meant passing on a player with higher perceived talent in favor of Frondell`s size. He is likely to develop into a top-line forward, so this organizational decision is difficult to strongly criticize.

Both Vaclav Nestrasil and Mason West were selected slightly earlier than my rankings suggested, but both are very raw projects with considerable long-term potential and sky-high upside. Given Chicago`s current prospect depth, they can afford to take these kinds of chances, as both players could ultimately become difficult-to-play-against middle-six complementary players. At a minimum, they successfully bet on large players with inherent skill, a strategy I can endorse.

Nathan Behm and Julius Sumpf provided good value at their respective draft positions, and there`s a possibility that one of them could reach the NHL. The Blackhawks should realistically expect two or three players from this group to make the league, although their development staff will face a significant challenge.

Montreal Canadiens
Grade: B+

The Canadiens experienced a eventful weekend. Trading away the picks that ultimately became Victor Eklund and Kashawn Aitcheson to acquire Noah Dobson aligns with their immediate timeline, but it may prove to be a significant price.

They hold Alexander Zharovsky in high regard, and it`s easy to see why, but they paid a notable price in draft value to select him. Nevertheless, I appreciate Zharovsky`s game, and he is expected to become a valuable complementary player in the middle six.

In the middle rounds, I was particularly impressed by the selections of Hayden Paupanekis, Bryce Pickford, and my personal favorite, L.J. Mooney. All these players possess legitimate NHL potential to varying degrees. Mooney, despite his smaller stature, provided outstanding value due to his competitive level and offensive capabilities. Paupanekis is likely to become a bottom-six player, and Pickford is a promising overage defenseman with offensive skill worth betting on.

Overall, it`s difficult not to be satisfied with Montreal`s weekend, even considering the valuable assets they parted with to secure their desired players.

Ottawa Senators
Grade: B+

Friday night was a notable success for the Senators. The asset management involved in trading back two spots, acquiring a pick that enabled them to trade for Jordan Spence, while still extracting tremendous value by selecting Logan Hensler at pick 23, was high-level work. I particularly appreciate Hensler`s style of play and believe he possesses the necessary tools to develop into a reliable second or third-pairing defenseman who could complement Jake Sanderson effectively. His right-handed shot, mobility, and NHL-ready physique make him a highly valuable prospect.

Given the Senators` limited depth in goal, taking a chance on Lucas Beckman was a logical decision. Bruno Idzan represents a high-upside bet, and a worthwhile one based on his performance in the USHL. He has the potential to be a late bloomer who contributes in a depth role.

Washington Capitals
Grade: B+

The Capitals successfully extracted excellent value with their first two selections in the draft. Both players are solid prospects with strong potential to become middle-six contributors at the NHL level.

Lynden Lakovic possesses the potential to be a large, dual-threat offensive producer. His potential is even more exciting if he develops the ability to physically assert himself using his 6-foot-4 frame. Lakovic has a high ceiling, and selecting a player with top-15 talent at pick 27 is commendable work.

Milton Gastrin is recognized as one of the draft`s more complete players and is expected to reach the NHL relatively soon. He projects as a third-line center but could potentially provide more offense than anticipated.

Beyond their initial picks, I also favored the selection of Maxim Schaefer, who demonstrates more skill than many players chosen in the fourth round. Considering their draft position and available picks, the Capitals secured good value and came away with at least two prospects who should eventually play impactful roles in their lineup.

Los Angeles Kings
Grade: B

The Los Angeles Kings` evaluation is based on their limited number of picks.