1 New York Islanders- Matthew Schaefer D

Erie Otters OHL 6’2 185 Hamilton, ON

Most were certain he was going 1st, after the Dobson trade earlier today there was virtually no doubt. Schaefer (6-2, 186) marked the fifth defenseman chosen first overall since 2006. He tallied 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) and a plus-21 rating in 17 games with Erie this season. His 1.29 points-per-game average placed him third among OHL defensemen in 2024-25 (minimum 15 games) and first among draft-eligible blueliners. The 17-year-old underwent surgery on Dec. 30 for a broken clavicle sustained three days earlier while representing Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa. Cleared for contact by doctors on May 1, he completed all NHL Scouting Combine tests except bench press and pullups. Schaefer endured profound personal losses, with his mother, Jennifer, passing away in February 2024 after a two-year fight with breast cancer, and his billet mom, Emily Matson, dying by apparent suicide two months earlier. He is the second Erie player to go No. 1 in the NHL Draft, following Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers, 2015), the last OHL player selected first overall.

2 San Jose Sharks- Michael Misa C

Saginaw Spirit OHL 6’1 183 Oakville, ON

Why did a blue hair woman with a nose ring make this pick? She is suppose to be a celebrity I have never heard of, Anyway the pick is very famous and will be an amazing NHL player I really wish this guy would of been on the World Junior team past season, probably the biggest snub in history. The San Jose Sharks have bolstered their impressive young forward core, led by Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith, by drafting Michael Misa with the second overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. By choosing Misa, the Sharks may have secured the draft’s most dynamic offensive talent. During his time with the OHL’s Saginaw Spirit last season, the swift-skating Misa recorded an astounding 62 goals, 72 assists, and 134 points in 65 games, while also contributing two goals and an assist in four playoff contests. Capable of playing both center and left wing, Misa is expected to develop into a top-line NHL center. Beyond his offensive flair, Misa also earns praise for his strong defensive play.

3 Chicago Blackhawks- Anton Frondell C

Djurgardens SHL 6’1 208 Trangsund, SWE

Jeremy Roenick made the pick ultimate legend that guy. Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson revealed today that the team has chosen forward Anton Frondell as their third overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The Blackhawks hold nine additional picks in the draft, including another first-round selection at No. 25.

Frondell, an 18-year-old standout, recorded 25 points (11 goals, 14 assists) in 29 regular-season games with Djurgårdens IF in HockeyAllsvenskan during the 2024-25 season, earning him the HockeyAllsvenskan Rookie of the Year award. He played a key role in Djurgårdens’ HockeyAllsvenskan Championship win and their promotion to the SHL, contributing seven points (3 goals, 4 assists) in 16 qualification games. Additionally, Frondell appeared in 10 games with Djurgårdens IF J20 (J20 Nationell) last season, tallying seven points (5 goals, 2 assists). Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 204 pounds, Frondell has amassed 26 points (11 goals, 15 assists) in 38 games with Djurgårdens in HockeyAllsvenskan from 2023 to 2025. Over the same period, he recorded 46 points (23 goals, 23 assists) in 39 games with Djurgårdens J20 (J20 Nationell). In the 2023-24 season, at just 16 years old, Frondell led all Djurgårdens J20 players with 18 goals, 21 assists, and 39 points. On the international stage, the Trångsund, Sweden native won a silver medal with Team Sweden at the 2025 IIHF World U18 Championship, where he notched three points (1 goal, 2 assists) in five games.

4 Utah Mammoth- Caleb Desnoyers C

Moncton Wildcats QMJHL 6’2 172 St Hyacinthe, PQ

Some golf guy made the pick. Again never heard of them but I guess he is from Utah so there is that. The Utah Mammoth have added a new talent to their roster! With the fourth-overall pick, Utah drafted forward Caleb Desnoyers from the Moncton Wildcats. Desnoyers was a key player in the Wildcats’ 2025 QMJHL Championship victory. During the playoffs, he tallied nine goals and a league-leading 21 assists, totaling 30 points in 19 games, earning him the prestigious Guy Lafleur Trophy as the QMJHL playoff MVP. He also represented Canada, winning gold at the 2024 Ivan Hlinka Cup and the 2024 IIHF Under-18 Men’s World Championship.

In the regular season, Desnoyers played 56 games for the Wildcats, racking up 35 goals and 49 assists for 84 points. He’ll have a familiar teammate in Utah, as he previously played alongside Gabe Smith, the Mammoth’s 2024 fourth-round pick, in Moncton.

5 Nashville Predators- Brady Martin C

Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds OHL 6’0 187

Shea Weber made the pick for the Predators and Brady Martin wasn’t at the draft. He was staying back home at his family farm. In a historic moment for Waterloo Region, Elmira’s own Brady Martin was chosen fifth overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2025 NHL Draft, marking one of the highest draft picks from the area in more than four decades.

On the opening day of the draft, Martin was at his family’s farm in Elmira, surrounded by loved ones. A memorable image from the event captured a watch party in the family’s backyard, uniquely elevated by a tractor. Martin, who honed his skills with the Waterloo Wolves AAA team before moving to the OHL, spent the last two seasons with the Sault St. Marie Greyhounds. In his most recent season, he played 57 games, tallying an impressive 33 goals and 39 assists. Martin’s selection places him among elite company from Waterloo Region, alongside Kitchener’s Scott Stevens, drafted fifth overall in 1982, and Galt’s Jim Schoenfeld, also picked fifth overall in 1972.

6 Philadelphia Flyers- Porter Martone RW

Brampton Steelheads 6’3 205 Peterborough, ON

Charles Barkley made the pick and he looks alot older than I remember. If any player of this draft class makes the NHL next season ( I doubt any will) but Martone may be the lone one. The Philadelphia Flyers made a significant move at the 2025 NHL Draft, selecting 18-year-old winger Porter Martone sixth overall, as noted by a draft analyst. Martone, who played alongside future Flyers teammates at the 2025 World Championships, showcased his talent at the 2024 U18 Men’s World Championships, where he captained Canada to gold, amassing five goals, 12 assists, and 17 points in seven games. With the Brampton Steelheads in the OHL, he led as captain, scoring 37 goals, 61 assists, and 98 points in 57 games. Standing at 6-foot-3, Martone’s size, leadership, and playmaking ability address the Flyers’ need for a larger winger, though his integration may require roster adjustments given the team’s smaller forwards like Travis Konecny, Matvei Michkov, and Bobby Brink.

7 Boston Bruins- James Hagens C

Boston College NCAA 5’10 185 Hauppage, NY

Adam Sandler made the pick as Happy Gilmore. If you’d heard a year ago that the Boston Bruins would draft Boston College center James Hagens in the 2025 NHL Draft, you’d likely have assumed they snagged the top pick.

Instead, the Bruins were thrilled to select the talented Eagles forward at No. 7 overall during Friday’s first round in Los Angeles.

Hagens recorded 37 points (11 goals, 26 assists) in 37 games for Boston College last season. While a point-per-game pace as an 18-year-old in Hockey East is notable, it didn’t quite match the dominance of recent college standouts like 2024’s No. 1 pick, Macklin Celebrini. Hagens’ smaller frame at 5-foot-11 may have contributed to his slight drop in the draft. Still, his offensive skills are undeniable. A gifted playmaker with superb skating and a knack for scoring, Hagens has consistently been a top-line talent at every level and has the potential to shine in that role in the NHL one day.

“James has a proven track record as an elite point producer,” Bruins GM Don Sweeney told the media Friday night.

8 Seattle Kraken- Jake O’Brien C

Brantford Bulldogs OHL 6’2 170 Toronto, ON

Jerry Bruckheimer made the pick? Some hollywood guy i guess? They should of got a hologram and got Kurt Cobain to do the pick. Hell get a player to make it. Anyway the Kraken got a great a player. The Seattle Kraken drafted forward Jake O’Brien from the Ontario Hockey League’s Brantford Bulldogs.

During his second year with the Bulldogs, O’Brien achieved personal bests, amassing 98 points (32 goals, 66 assists) in 66 regular-season games, a slight increase from the prior season’s 93 points. As an alternate captain for the first time, he ranked third on the team in goals and points and second in assists. O’Brien contributed nine power-play goals and three game-winners. His standout performances included two hat tricks, notably a five-point game (3 goals, 2 assists) on March 8 against Saginaw. He recorded 26 multi-point games, with one five-point, four four-point, and nine three-point games. In the OHL playoffs, he tallied three goals and eight assists in 11 games.

The 6-foot-2, 177-pound forward burst onto the scene in his debut OHL season, recording 64 points (13 goals, 51 assists) in 61 games. This earned him the OHL Rookie of the Year award, along with selections to the CHL All-Rookie Team and OHL First All-Rookie Team. He led all OHL rookies in assists and points that year.

9 Buffalo Sabres- Radim Mrtka D

Seattle Thunderbirds WHL 6’6 218

Goo Goo Dolls made this selection I didn’t even think those guys would be alive anymore they are from like the 80’s. That might ne the 1880s too. The look on Mrtka’s face while doing a press interview didn’t appear he was very happy with his future destination. That or maybe he was just tired. Radim Mrtka, a 6-foot-6 defenseman from Czechia, was selected ninth overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2025 NHL Draft, marking a significant milestone in his rapid rise through the hockey ranks. Starting the season with HC Ocelari Trinec, Mrtka transitioned to the Seattle Thunderbirds in the WHL, where he adapted to the faster, more physical North American game, finishing with 35 points in 43 games. Despite initial language barriers, his English improved, and his two-way play, mobility, and work ethic impressed Sabres GM Kevyn Adams, who opted to draft him rather than trade the pick. Scouted since the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Mrtka’s potential as a top-four right-shot defenseman, inspired by Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin, aligns with Buffalo’s vision of building a contender, though his NHL timeline remains flexible as the team prioritizes his development.

10 Anaheim Ducks- Roger McQueen F

Brandon Wheat Kings WHL 6’5 192 Saskatoon, SK

Pacey from Dawsons Creek who was on the Mighty Ducks movie is with a girl who was in one of the duck movies apparently to make this selection. It is still a shock that with all the WHL games I have watched I have never seen McQueen play in person yet. He is always injured. At 18 years old (born October 2, 2006), McQueen tallied 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) in just 17 games for the Brandon Wheat Kings in the 2024-25 WHL season, alongside 40 penalty minutes and a +8 plus-minus rating. Despite missing 51 games due to injury last season, he produced points in 71% of the games he played and topped the Wheat Kings with a 1.18 points-per-game average. He also contributed one assist in three WHL Playoff games upon his return.

Standing at 6-5 and weighing 198 pounds, the forward amassed 51 points (21 goals, 30 assists) in 53 games during the 2023-24 season, placing second on Brandon with a .96 points-per-game rate and leading the team in power-play points (7 goals, 8 assists for 15 points). In the 2024 WHL Playoffs, he led the Wheat Kings with 4 goals and tied for the team lead with 5 points (4 goals, 1 assist) in four games. As a rookie in 2022-23, he topped all Brandon first-year players with 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in 55 games. Over his WHL career, McQueen has accumulated 86 points (35 goals, 51 assists) and 116 penalty minutes in 127 games with the Wheat Kings.

11 Pittsburgh Penguins- Ben Kindell RW

Calgary Hitmen WHL 5’10 181 Coquitlam, BC

Kris Letang and his son made the pick dressed in the same suits. This is the first pick that was a little bit of a shock, not that Kindel isn’t a great player most had him going in the early 20’s. I would of also like to of seen him fall to the Flames. Your already playing in Calgary what’s another 20 years there? In the 2024-25 season, 18-year-old forward Kindel wrapped up his second full campaign with the Calgary Hitmen in the Western Hockey League (WHL). He posted personal bests in the WHL, amassing 35 goals, 64 assists, and 99 points, along with a +39 rating in 65 games. His 99 points placed him second on the Hitmen and seventh league-wide. Kindel also etched his name in the Hitmen record books with a 23-game point streak (15 goals, 30 assists) from November 8, 2024, to January 12, 2025, a run surpassed only by WHL Player of the Year Gavin McKenna’s 40-game streak.

In the 2025 WHL playoffs, the 5-foot-10, 181-pound forward topped Calgary’s scoring charts with 15 points (8 goals, 7 assists) across 11 games. The previous season (2023-24) saw Kindel rank third on the Hitmen with 60 points (15 goals, 45 assists) in 68 games. Over his two WHL seasons from 2023 to 2025, he tallied 50 goals, 109 assists, and 159 points with a +41 rating in 134 games. Hailing from Coquitlam, British Columbia, Kindel shone on the international stage in 2025. He earned a gold medal at the World Under-18 Championship, contributing seven points (1 goal, 6 assists) in five games for Team Canada. Additionally, he secured gold at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, recording a goal and an assist in five games.

Pittsburgh TRADES pick #12 to Philadelphia for #22 and #31 in this draft

12 Philadelphia Flyers- Jack Nesbitt C

Windsor Spitfires OHL 6’4 183 Sarnia, ON

Some guy that played with the Eagles in the NFL made the pick. With the 12th pick in the first round, the Philadelphia Flyers chose center Jack Nesbitt from the Ontario Hockey League’s Windsor Spitfires. “His size, toughness, playmaking, and scoring ability really stood out,” said Flyers GM Danny Briere. “We watched him closely in the second half of the season, and he made significant strides on a strong Windsor team. Our scouts saw him live multiple times, and he consistently impressed.” “Being selected by the Flyers is a dream come true, especially knowing they traded up to the 12th spot to get me,” Nesbitt said. “I’m thrilled and can’t wait to get started in Philadelphia.”

Nesbitt, an 18-year-old born January 12, 2007, tallied 64 points (25 goals, 39 assists) in 65 games during his second OHL season. In the playoffs, he added 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in 12 games, ranking fifth on the Spitfires in points, goals, and assists. The 6-foot-5, 186-pound center from Sarnia, Ontario, also competed for Canada at the 2024 U-18 World Championship, recording five points (2 goals, 3 assists) in six games.

13 Detroit Red Wings- Carter Bear C

Everett Silvertips WHL 6’0 179 Winnipeg, MB

Joey Gladstone who just got done battling cancer made the pick. Carter Bear, selected 13th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, expressed overwhelming excitement and gratitude at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater, describing the moment as surreal. The 18-year-old forward, who led the Everett Silvertips with 40 goals and 82 points in 56 WHL games during the 2024-25 season, earned a spot on the WHL’s Western Conference Second All-Star Team despite an Achilles injury cutting his season short. Bear credited the Silvertips’ first-class organization for his development, amassing 141 points in 142 games since 2022-23. Describing himself as a hard-working, competitive player with strong puck skills, Bear is supported by his proud parents, Misty and Conrad, and over two dozen family members and friends who celebrated his draft moment in Los Angeles, all wearing Red Wings caps, marking the start of his promising NHL journey.

14 Columbus Blue Jackets- Jackson Smith D

Tri City Americans WHL 6’3 190 Calgary, AB

Johnny Gaudreau’s wife went on stage to make the pick. Smith, 18, set single-season career highs after registering 11 goals and 43 assists for 54 points with 48 penalty minutes in 68 games played with Tri-City during the 2024-25 Western Hockey League campaign. He led club blueliners in goals, assists, points, and power play goals (4), while ranking third on the team in assists and fourth in points. He led WHL draft eligible blueliners in assists and points.

The 6-4, 199-pound defenseman has collected 19-66-85 with 89 PIM in 136 career games over three seasons with the American since making his league debut in 2022-23. He added 1-2-3 in seven career postseason appearances with the club. A native of Calgary, Alberta, he helped Canada win a gold medal at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championships after leading tournament blueliners in goals with 4-1-5 in seven appearances. He also won a gold medal with the country at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Smith is committed to play at Penn State University for the 2025-26 season.

15 Vancouver Canucks- Braeden Cootes C

Seattle Thunderbirds WHL 6’0 183 Sherwood Park, AB

The Vancouver Canucks made a strategic move with their first-round draft pick on Friday, focusing on long-term needs for leadership and a top-six centre, though the impact won’t be felt for several seasons. After two months of attempting to trade their pick for an established top-six centre to fill the void left by J.T. Miller’s exit last season, the Canucks faced a challenging market driven by a soaring salary cap. Ultimately, they opted to select Seattle Thunderbirds captain Braeden Cootes with the 15th overall pick in the NHL Draft.

As the youngest captain in the Western Hockey League, Cootes immediately ranks among Vancouver’s top forward prospects, potentially just behind 2022 first-round pick Jonathan Lekkerimaki, the 20-year-old winger who split time this past season between the Canucks and their AHL Calder Cup-winning affiliate. “I’m done being an Oilers fan as of today,” Cootes, an 18-year-old from Sherwood Park, near Edmonton, said with a grin. “Growing up, I enjoyed watching the Canucks. I loved seeing players like Quinn Hughes and J.T. Miller when he was there. It’s incredible to now be a Vancouver Canuck, especially so close to home on the West Coast. I understand the expectations of a Canadian market, and I’m thrilled to embrace this opportunity.”

Cootes, a point-per-game, two-way centre in Seattle, also led Canada’s Under-18 world championship team to gold in May, topping the tournament with six goals and 12 points in seven games. Sportsnet analyst and former NHL scout Jason Bukala praised Cootes as a “future captain” for Vancouver following his selection at the decentralized draft in Los Angeles.

16 New York Islanders- Victor Eklund LW

Djurgardens SHL 5’11 170 Stockholm, SWE

Kevin Connelly made the pick? Don’t know this guy either or what he does. Eklund’s standout trait is undoubtedly his relentless forechecking ability. He’s an exceptional skater with a knack for clever puck handling, making him a nightmare for opposing defenders. His deceptive playstyle—using head fakes, pinpoint passing, and sharp vision—keeps opponents guessing and opens up opportunities on the ice.

Last season with Djurgardens in Sweden’s Hockey Allsvenskan, Eklund tallied an impressive 31 points (19 goals, 12 assists) in the country’s second-tier league, showcasing his offensive prowess. While his brother, William, was selected seventh overall by the San Jose Sharks in 2021, the two have distinct styles, though both possess significant potential. Eklund started the draft season as the top-ranked international prospect but was overtaken by teammate Anton Frondell, who was picked third overall by the Chicago Blackhawks. Still, Eklund remained a top-tier prospect, ranked sixth by FC Hockey and ninth by Elite Prospects. Though some Islanders fans may have hoped for James Hagens, Eklund is no consolation prize. Mathieu Darche made a savvy choice grabbing him mid-first round, securing a player who could develop into a key piece for the Islanders’ future.

17 New York Islanders- Kashawn Aitcheson D

Barrie Colts OHL 6’1 198 Toronto, ON

Connely made this pick also for the Isles. In a strategic move to bolster their defensive core, the New York Islanders selected Kashawn Aitcheson, a 6-foot-1, 198-pound defenseman from the OHL’s Barrie Colts, with the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Aitcheson’s standout season, where he notched 26 goals and 33 assists in 64 games, showcased his rare blend of offensive prowess and physicality, earning him a spot among the top-scoring defensemen in the league and a Barrie franchise record for goals by a blueliner. Praised by NHL Central Scouting’s Dan Marr as a potential trophy winner, Aitcheson’s versatility—excelling in heavy minutes, penalty killing, power-play contributions, and delivering punishing hits—makes him a perfect fit for the Islanders’ gritty, team-oriented style. While his lateral movement and decision-making under pressure need refinement, his high ceiling, improved discipline, and instinctive play signal a bright future as a two-way force on the blue line.

18 Calgary Flames- Cole Reschny F

Victoria Royals WHL 5’10 187 Macklin, SK

Lanny MacDonald made the pick for the Flames. The Calgary Flames took a significant step toward rejuvenating their forward group by selecting Victoria Royals center Cole Reschny with the 18th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The 5-foot-11 Macklin, Saskatchewan native posted an impressive 26 goals and 66 assists in 62 regular-season games, followed by nine goals and 16 assists in 11 playoff contests with the Royals. His standout performance continued internationally, contributing five goals and three assists in five games to help Team Canada secure gold at the under-18 championship in Texas. Known for his exceptional work ethic and hockey IQ, Reschny’s ability to transition from defense to offense, create turnovers, and apply relentless forechecking pressure compensates for his average size. Ranked 21st by Sportsnet’s Sam Cosentino in May, Reschny joins 2024 draftee Luke Misa and defenseman Zayne Parekh as part of Calgary’s youth movement, addressing the need for new blood at center behind aging veterans Nazem Kadri and Mikael Backlund. Acquired from the New Jersey Devils in the Jacob Markstrom trade, this pick signals the Flames’ commitment to building a dynamic, younger core.

19 St. Louis Blues- Justin Carbonneau RW

Blainville-Boisbrand Armada QMJHL 6’1 192 Levis, PQ

Why they would let Nikki Glasser do their pick is beyond me. The lady is filthy and disgusting. Its almost funny. Have they ever watched her shows? Personally I could care less but the NHL with its squeaky clean and inclusive non racist image they want to portray may not be the best spokesperson to use. The St. Louis Blues drafted 18-year-old forward Justin Carbonneau, a dynamic goal-scoring talent, with the 19th overall pick at the 2025 NHL Draft held at The Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Hailing from Levis, Quebec, Carbonneau was ranked 16th among North American skaters and 11th among forwards by NHL Central Scouting, trailing prospects like Jack Nesbitt and Lynden Lakovic, while Daily Faceoff’s Steven Ellis pegged him as the 15th overall prospect. Carbonneau, who began his junior career with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, truly shined with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada in the QMJHL during the 2024-25 season, recording career-best totals of 46 goals, 43 assists, and 89 points in 62 games. His performance, which placed him third in league goals and second in points, earned him QMJHL first-team all-star honors, though his Armada fell to the Sherbrooke Phoenix in the first round of the playoffs. Ellis praised Carbonneau’s skating and shot release, noting his flair for high-skill plays and potential to emulate NHL star Brock Boeser, while suggesting he refine his shot selection and playmaking to maximize his offensive impact at the professional level.

20 Columbus Blue Jackets- Pyotr Andeyanov G

Krasnaya Armiya Moskva MHL 6’2 207 Volsk, RUS

Johnny Gaudreaus wife made the pick again. This was by far the most shocking pick in the draft. Andreyanov, 18, posted a 23-6-6 record with a 1.75 goals-against average (GAA), .942 save percentage (SV%) and three shutouts in 37 games played for Krasnaya in Russia’s Junior Hockey League (MHL) during the 2024-25 season. The 6-0, 207-pound netminder ranked second in the league in save percentage (min. 20 GP) as well as fourth in wins and goals-against average. The MHL Goaltender of the Month for October and December also made his All-Star debut, participating for the Western Conference. He registered a 2.36 GAA and .929 SV% in six playoff appearances.

The Volsk, Russia native has compiled a 22-14-6 career record with a 2.40 GAA, .929 SV% and four shutouts in 57 career MHL games over two seasons with Krasnaya Armiya.

Senators trade #21 to Nashville for 23rd and 67th*

21 Nashville Predators- Cameron Reid D

Kitchener Rangers OHL 6’0 174 Aylmer, ON

Some NFL guy made this pick too never heard of them. On Friday night at the Peacock Center in Los Angeles, Cameron Reid’s lifelong dream became reality when San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle announced his selection as the 21st overall pick by the Nashville Predators in the 2025 NHL Upper Deck Entry Level Draft. Reid now holds the distinction of being the highest-drafted Kitchener Rangers player since Radek Faksa, who was chosen 13th overall by the Dallas Stars in 2012.

Reid also joins Nick Spaling as the second Kitchener Ranger to be drafted by the Predators. Spaling was selected in the second round, 58th overall, in 2007. “It’s incredible. I’m at a loss for words. You think about this moment every day leading up to it, and it’s truly a dream come true,” Reid said shortly after hearing his name called by Nashville. Hailing from Aylmer, Ontario, the dynamic second-year defenceman significantly improved his performance from his rookie season, more than doubling his point total. Reid recorded 54 points in 67 games, ranking third overall on the Rangers roster and leading all team defencemen.

Across the league, he was the 10th highest-scoring defenceman and the second-highest point producer among first-time draft-eligible defenders. His 40 assists topped the Rangers, placed ninth among OHL defencemen, and ranked fifth among all first-time draft-eligible prospects, including forwards. Selected 10th overall by the Kitchener Rangers in the 2023 OHL Draft, Reid has now achieved the remarkable feat of becoming a first-round pick in the National Hockey League just two years later.

22 Pittsburgh Penguins- Bill Zonnon C

Rouyn Noranda Huskies QMJHL 6’2 190 Montreal, PQ

Letang and son are back to make the pick. At 18 years old, Zonnon wrapped up his third season with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), serving as an alternate captain. He set personal bests with 28 goals, 55 assists, and 83 points, finishing second on the team in scoring. After the season, he was traded to the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada.

In the 2025 QMJHL playoffs, the 6-foot-2, 185-pound forward topped the Huskies’ leaderboard and placed 13th league-wide, amassing 16 points (8 goals, 8 assists) in 13 games. From 2022 to 2025, Zonnon recorded 62 goals, 118 assists, and 180 points with a plus-29 rating over 195 games with Rouyn-Noranda. He also competed in the playoffs each year, totaling 33 points (16 goals, 17 assists) in 32 postseason contests. Hailing from Montreal, Quebec, Zonnon played for Team Canada at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, earning three points (1 goal, 2 assists) in six games.

23 Ottawa Senators- Logan Hensler D

University of Wisconsin NCAA 6’2 196 Woodbury, MN

Tom Green made the pick. Yeah he makes great choices 🙄In a serendipitous moment at the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, the Ottawa Senators selected Logan Hensler, a 6’2”, 196-pound right-shot defenceman from the University of Wisconsin, with the 23rd overall pick acquired after trading down from 21st with Nashville for an additional third-round pick. The 18-year-old, who describes himself as a mobile, two-way defenceman, models his game after Senators’ star Jake Sanderson, emphasizing his elite skating and competitive physicality despite modest offensive stats (two goals, 12 points in 32 NCAA games). Hensler, who won gold with Team USA at the 2025 World Juniors in Ottawa, expressed excitement about joining a great organization and city, aiming to enhance his offensive output and penalty-kill role next season. Ottawa’s head scout Don Boyd praised Hensler’s puck-moving and transition skills, noting his untapped potential despite not being a consensus first-rounder, as the Senators prioritized the scarce right-shot defenceman position, mirroring their strategy with Carter Yakemchuk’s selection in 2024. Of Mexican heritage, Hensler, the fifth such player drafted in NHL history, grew up skating on a backyard rink in Minnesota, and Ottawa’s gamble on his positional upside could prove genius if he and Yakemchuk develop into impactful NHLers.

Kings trade #24 to Pittsburgh for #31 and #59

24 Pittsburgh Penguins- William Horcoff C

University of Michigan NCAA 6’4 181 Birmingham, MI

Just Letangs son made this pick this time and they selected William Horcoff. Horcoff, 18, split the 2024-25 season with USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program and the University of Michigan (NCAA). In 28 games with the Program’s U18 Team, the forward tallied 14 points (8G-6A) in 28 games. In 18 NCAA games with the Wolverines, Horcoff registered 10 points (4G-6A).

The 6-foot-5, 203-pound forward has spent parts of the last two seasons with the NTDP from 2023-25. In 82 total games at the U18 and U17 levels, Horcoff notched 33 points (19G-14A).

The Birmingham, Michigan native represented Team USA at the 2025 World Under-18 Championship, tallying four points (2G-2A) in seven games and winning a bronze medal.

25 Chicago Blackhawks- Vaclav Nestrasil RW

Muskegon Lumberjacks USHL 6’6 185 Prague, CZE

Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson revealed today that the team has chosen forward Vaclav Nestrasil as their 25th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The Blackhawks hold eight additional picks in this year’s draft, including two in the second round (No. 34 and No. 62).

Nestrasil, an 18-year-old forward, recorded 42 points (19 goals, 23 assists) in 61 regular-season games with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL during the 2024-25 season. He tied for fourth on the team with 19 goals, placed fifth with 42 points, and ranked sixth with 23 assists. In the playoffs, Nestrasil contributed 13 points (7 goals, 6 assists) in 14 games, helping the Lumberjacks secure the Clark Cup Championship. His seven postseason goals tied for third on the team, while his 13 points ranked fifth.

Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 185 pounds, Nestrasil amassed 42 points (19 goals, 23 assists) in 72 regular-season games with Muskegon over two seasons (2024-25). Originally from Praha, Czechia, he is set to join the University of Massachusetts Amherst for the 2025-26 season.

26 Nashville Predators- Ryker Lee F

Madison Capitols USHL 6’0 181 Wilmette, IL

The Nashville Predators used their final first-round pick in the NHL Draft to select Ryker Lee, a 6-foot, 170-pound forward from the Madison Capitols, at 26th overall. Hailing from Wilmette, Illinois, Lee tallied 68 points in 58 USHL games, ranking fourth in the league and earning USHL Rookie of the Year honors. Committed to Michigan State for the upcoming college season, Lee’s NCAA stint is expected to further his development as a dynamic winger. His scoring prowess complements Nashville’s earlier pick, center Brady Martin (fifth overall), bolstering the team’s future offensive prospects.

27 Washington Capitals- Lynden Lakovic F

Moose Jaw Warriors 6’4 201 Kelowna, B.C

Bettman did this pick no celebrity. They should of got Donald Trump to make the pick🤣Anyway I almost thought Lakovic may of slipped out of the first round. He did play for a bad team which probably didn’t help his stock. The Washington Capitals chose Moose Jaw Warriors forward Lynden Lakovic with the 27th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, sponsored by Upper Deck. Head Coach Mark O’Leary, speaking on The Sheet Draft Show with Jeff Marek and Pierre McGuire, praised Lakovic’s abilities: “He’s got the skill to deliver in clutch moments. People expect a big guy to play physical, but he’s got his own style—using his size and reach effectively without hesitation.” Lakovic topped the Warriors’ scoring charts this season, posting 27 goals and 31 assists for 58 points in 47 games. After recovering from an injury in February, he was named the 37th captain in the franchise’s history.

In 153 WHL regular-season games, Lakovic has recorded 47 goals and 57 assists for 104 points. In 30 WHL playoff games, he contributed eight goals and three assists for 11 points. Speaking to Ailish Forfar on Sportsnet’s Draft Show, Lakovic shared his excitement: “It’s an incredible feeling, such a relief. I’ve dreamed of this moment forever, and to be drafted by a fantastic organization like Washington, I’m over the moon.” In a post-draft scrum, Lakovic added, “I was pretty nervous coming into today, not knowing how things would go. But hearing my name called by Washington was instant relief and just an unreal moment. I’m so grateful.”

28 Winnipeg Jets- Sascha Boumedienne D

Boston University NCAA 6’2 183 Oulu, Fin*

Eric Comrie made the pick and he was dressed like someone from a Dr. Seuss book. The Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club revealed today that they have chosen defenceman Sascha Boumedienne with the 28th overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft.

At just 18 years old, Boumedienne recorded 13 points (3 goals, 10 assists) in 40 games for Boston University, making him the youngest player in NCAA hockey for the 2024-25 season. Hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, he earned a spot on the 2024-25 Hockey East All-Academic Team. Before his college career, Boumedienne amassed 27 points (3 goals, 24 assists) in 49 games with the Youngstown Phantoms, securing a place on the 2023-24 USHL All-Rookie Team.

On the international stage, Boumedienne was honored as the Best Defenceman at the 2025 IIHF World U18 Championship, where he helped Team Sweden win a silver medal. He set a tournament record for points by a defenceman, tallying 14 points (1 goal, 13 assists) in seven games, leading all players in assists. Additionally, he claimed a bronze medal at the 2024 Hlinka-Gretzky Cup.

Hurricanes trade #29 for #34 and #62 and a 5th round in 2027

29 Chicago Blackhawks- Mason West

Edina HS 6’6 218 Edina, MN

Betman did the pick. This guy is also a football qb. With their third first-round pick of the evening, the Blackhawks have selected Mason West from Edina High School.

West, who will be joining the NCAA’s Michigan State University Spartans in the fall of 2026-27, is an intriguing prospect for a few reasons. He’s a towering forward, considering his talent, standing at 6’6″, 218lbs. Although he finished the year with USHL Fargo, he spent much of the year with Edina High School in Minnesota, scoring 27 goals and 49 points in 31 games.

Once he transitioned to Fargo toward the end of the year, he scored one goal and nine points in 10 games. The most fascinating part about West is that he’s never been a full-time hockey player. Throughout his time with Edina, West doubled as a premier high school quarterback and could receive D1 scholarships if his senior season this autumn goes well.

30 San Jose Sharks- Joshua Ravensbergen G

Prince George Cougars WHL 6’5 192 North Vancouver, BC

Blue haired lady is out making the pick again. Joshua Ravensbergen has achieved a lifelong ambition, becoming an NHL Draft pick. The Prince George Cougars goaltender was chosen 30th overall by the San Jose Sharks at the 2025 NHL Draft in Los Angeles, marking him as the highest-drafted goaltender in the franchise’s history.

At 18, Ravensbergen is the first Cougar drafted by San Jose since Marek Viedensky in 2009, with Ty Wishart also being a first-round pick for the Sharks in 2006. Since joining the Cougars in spring 2023, the 6’6” left-handed goaltender has emerged as a top talent in the WHL. Over two seasons, he recorded a 59-17-5 record in 89 games, with a 2.79 goals-against average and a .904 save percentage. His 33 wins in the 2024-25 season placed him second among WHL goaltenders.

Hailing from North Vancouver, Ravensbergen’s 59 career wins rank fourth in Cougars history. Entering the draft, he was rated the top North American goaltender among eligible prospects. He becomes the first WHL goaltender selected in the first round since Sebastian Cossa in 2021.

This selection continues a strong run for the Cougars, who have now had at least one player drafted in the NHL for five consecutive seasons, including a second straight year with a first-round pick, after Terik Parascak was chosen by Washington in 2024

31 Los Angeles King- Henry Brzustwicz D

London Knights OHL 6’2 203 Washington, MI

Another celebrity I never heard of doing the pick. The Los Angeles Kings chose defenseman Henry Brzustewicz as their first pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, held at Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California. Brzustewicz was selected 31st overall in the first round. The Kings obtained this pick, along with the 59th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, through a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for the 24th overall selection.

Brzustewicz, an 18-year-old blueliner, completed his second season with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). During the 2024-25 regular season, he appeared in 67 games, scoring 10 goals and recording 32 assists for a total of 42 points (10-32=42), while posting a plus-24 rating. His 32 assists and 42 points ranked second among London defensemen. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Michigan native contributed five points (1-4=5) and a plus-9 rating in 17 playoff games, helping the Knights secure their second straight OHL Championship. He also added two points (1-1=2) and a plus-2 rating in five games, aiding London in winning their third Memorial Cup in franchise history.

Over his 119 career OHL games, the right-shot defenseman has amassed 12 goals and 36 assists for 48 points (12-36=48) and a plus-31 rating across his first two seasons in the league.

32 Calgary Flames- Cullen Potter C

Arizona State NCAA 5’10 172

Lanny made the pick again. The Calgary Flames have chosen centre Cullen Potter from the Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA) with their second pick, 32nd overall, in the 2025 NHL Draft. Potter was ranked 22nd among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, 17th by Daily Faceoff, and 9th by FC Hockey. The 18-year-old, a left-shot centre who can also play wing, stands at 5’10” and weighs 172 pounds. Originally from Hortonville, Wisconsin, but raised in Minnesota, Potter recorded 13 goals and 9 assists for 22 points in 35 games with Arizona State this season. He also competed for the U.S. at the Under-18 World Championships. Notably, his mother, Jenny Potter, is a four-time Olympic medalist in women’s hockey, earning gold in 1998, silver in 2002 and 2010, and bronze in 2006. The 32nd pick was acquired by the Flames from the Florida Panthers in the Matthew Tkachuk trade, which also brought Jonathan Huberdeau, MacKenzie Weegar, and Cole Schwindt to Calgary.