2025 NHL Draft: Live First Round Pick Tracker and Analysis

The 2025 NHL Entry Draft is being held on Friday (Round 1) and Saturday (Rounds 2-7) at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

This page will provide comprehensive coverage throughout the event. As each selection is made, it will be added below, along with detailed scouting notes and analysis on how the first-round picks integrate with their respective teams.

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Round 1

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1. New York Islanders: Matthew Schaefer, D

Team: Erie (OHL)

DOB: 09/05/2007 | Ht: 6-1¾ | Wt: 183 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 17 | G: 7 | A: 15 | P: 22

Scouting Notes:

Schaefer is projected to develop into a true foundational No. 1 defenseman for years to come. He is a dynamic presence on both ends of the ice, showcasing exceptional skating ease and elite mobility. He effectively shuts down opponents in all situations and generates offense through quality transition play.

Executives and scouts regard him as a future elite NHL blueliner and a cornerstone for a championship-level roster. Schaefer`s capacity to direct play from the defensive zone, handle tough assignments, and quarterback a power play—combined with confidence in his character and leadership—leads many to believe he possesses the attributes to become a top-10 defenseman in the league, potentially wearing a letter as part of a team`s leadership group.

How he fits:

After trading Noah Dobson earlier in the day, the Islanders secured their potential franchise defenseman. Schaefer excels in all aspects of the game, featuring dynamic skating and elite mobility. He is expected to take on the most challenging matchups, facilitate zone exits with precise passes and carries, and drive offensive play from the back end. He is a future No. 1 defenseman capable of logging heavy minutes (25-28 per night) and running the power play.

Schaefer`s ability to dictate game flow from the defense is potentially transformative for the Islanders. Schaefer is anticipated to participate in development camp next week, and it`s highly probable he will start the season in the NHL lineup. Don`t be surprised if he is already managing the power play and playing significant minutes by November.

An emotional Schaefer embraced his family and donned the Islanders jersey for the first time, notable with a cancer awareness patch. Through tears, he conveyed his excitement and emotions, capturing the hearts of many beyond just Islanders fans.

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2. San Jose Sharks: Michael Misa, C

Team: Saginaw (OHL)

DOB: 02/16/2007 | Ht: 6-¾ | Wt: 184 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 65 | G: 62 | A: 72 | P: 134

Scouting Notes:

Granted exceptional status in the OHL in 2022, Misa delivered one of the most impressive goal-scoring seasons in recent memory during 2024-25, netting 62 goals in just 65 games. He is projected to be a top-line forward capable of consistently exceeding 90 points per season in the NHL.

Misa possesses elite offensive instincts. He processes the game at a high speed and executes plays rapidly. Scouts consider him NHL-ready and believe he has the potential to become an elite top-line center. Away from the puck, Misa is adept at finding open space in defensive coverage and has a knack for performing in crucial moments. His combination of high-end playmaking and goal-scoring ability makes him a constant dual threat in the offensive zone.

How he fits:

The Sharks maintained suspense until the final moment but ultimately selected Misa. He is a unique talent and provides the organization with a second elite two-way center. He projects as a first-line star with both playmaking and scoring threats, demonstrated by his 62 goals in 65 OHL games.

If Misa`s defensive game continues to develop, there`s a strong possibility the Sharks could boast two centers capable of dominating play across all three zones, especially with 2024 No. 1 pick Macklin Celebrini already in place. On the power play, Misa can act as a facilitator, a shooting threat, and carry the puck into the zone. His dual-threat capabilities allow him to play various roles, including the bumper, the flank, or down low. With this selection, the Sharks potentially secure the best one-two punch down the middle for many years.

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3. Chicago Blackhawks: Anton Frondell, C

Team: Djurgarden (SWEDEN-2)

DOB: 05/07/2007 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 198 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 29 | G: 11 | A: 14 | P: 25

Scouting Notes:

Frondell is a versatile two-way forward capable of playing both center and right wing. This flexibility is appealing to teams, although many believe he is most likely to reach his full potential as a winger in the NHL.

Frondell is coming off one of the most productive seasons for an under-18 player in Allsvenskan history, providing confidence in his projection as a first-line NHL forward. He is a highly intelligent player who dissects defenders in one-on-one situations and exploits defensive coverage in the offensive zone. The detailed aspects of Frondell`s game are highly transferable, including excellent forechecking, a willingness to attack the middle of the ice, and high-level anticipation on both sides of the puck.

He has demonstrated play-driving ability against professional men in the Allsvenskan, a trait that has translated well for other prospects in the past. He is projected to produce between 75-85 points per season. His style of play translates effectively, leading executives to be optimistic about his potential to step into the league within the next 18 months.

How he fits:

It was widely known that Chicago aimed to add size up front, and Frondell provides exactly that. He can play center or wing and brings an excellent two-way game. He is confidently projected as a first-line forward who can beat defenders individually, drive play in both zones, and is expected to score close to a point per game.

He plays effectively in the interior of the ice and possesses the potential to score 30-plus goals in the NHL thanks to his excellent shot. Frondell is likely a year away from playing in the NHL and probably two or three years from hitting his peak as a play-driving top-line forward. Chicago could deploy him as a center behind Connor Bedard or place him on Bedard`s line to leverage his versatility.

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4. Utah Mammoth: Caleb Desnoyers, C

Team: Moncton (QMJHL)

DOB: 04/11/2007 | Ht: 6-1½ | Wt: 178 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 56 | G: 35 | A: 49 | P: 84

Scouting Notes:

Described as a `coach`s dream` due to his consistent ability to execute offensive or checking assignments. He makes intelligent, straightforward plays, applies a physical presence on the forecheck, and generally disrupts and makes life difficult for opposing defenders.

He is projected to be a quality second-line center with a solid chance of developing into a first-line player. He is intelligent, with quick hands and playmaking skill. While not flashy, he is consistently effective and makes smart plays with the puck. As one scouting director noted, `he`s the type of player you win with.` Some scouts have quietly compared him to Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews, which are undeniably high comparisons.

How he fits:

The Mammoth kept everyone guessing: would they trade or keep the pick? Ultimately, they held onto it and selected Desnoyers. He is an all-situations player, recognized as one of the best two-way talents available. He is a serial winner who adapts his game style to what`s needed to win. If offense is required, he produces. If shutting down the opponent`s top players is the goal, he excels at that too.

Utah needed size and two-way capability to complement Logan Cooley, Clayton Keller, and Dylan Guenther, and Desnoyers fits perfectly. He is likely to be NHL-ready sooner than many anticipate because his professional habits are outstanding. He projects as a play-driving, two-way, second-line center whom the Mammoth will rely on in key moments. As mentioned, there are notable similarities to Jonathan Toews in Desnoyers` game, which should excite Mammoth fans, management, and coaches alike.

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5. Nashville Predators: Brady Martin, C

Team: Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

DOB: 03/16/2007 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 178 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 57 | G: 33 | A: 39 | P: 72

Scouting Notes:

A versatile `Swiss Army knife` type of player who is expected to be most effective on the wing due to his strong play along the boards, Martin projects as a middle-six forward capable of scoring 20 goals consistently, with potential upside as a second-line forward.

He is a relentless force who provides value across all three zones, both with and without the puck. Martin earned significant praise from scouts after an excellent performance at the IIHF under-18 championship, leading many to suggest he could be selected very early in the first round. He is a workhorse with constant energy, blending physicality with hard skill. He is incredibly difficult to contain due to his strength, and he forces defenders into challenging positions with good speed and a willingness to make `winning` plays.

Several teams highlighted how impressive Martin was during combine interviews. Combining an appealing personality with his hard-nosed playing style creates a rare package highly valued by many scouts who believe he embodies the type of player needed to succeed in the playoffs. His mention of Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett as a role model undoubtedly captured attention.

How he fits:

Another pick rumored to be potentially traded, the Predators kept it and selected Martin. Martin is a raw player with functional strength who projects as a middle-six forward. He is expected to thrive as games become more intense and physical, capable of swinging momentum with a brilliant forecheck or a significant hit.

His hard-nosed style was very appealing to many teams, particularly in light of the recent success of players like Sam Bennett and the Panthers. Martin requires at least one or two more seasons to refine his offensive game. While the Predators passed on some high-skill players like James Hagens and Porter Martone who were still available, they seem confident that Martin can be an impactful player for years to come.

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6. Philadelphia Flyers: Porter Martone, RW

Team: Brampton (OHL)

DOB: 10/26/2006 | Ht: 6-2¾ | Wt: 208 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 57 | G: 37 | A: 61 | P: 98

Scouting Notes:

A large, intelligent forward, Martone is a dual-threat offensive player capable of both scoring himself and facilitating plays for others. He projects as a second-line scoring winger who should receive top power-play minutes.

His competitive nature will help him become an effective agitator as he learns to physically assert himself against opponents. While he needs to refine his competitiveness and physicality for maximum impact, he is precisely the type of player teams desire due to his unique combination of offensive talent and competitive drive.

His rare blend of scoring ability, size, and hard skill makes him a highly attractive prospect. While his most likely projection is a top-six forward, Martone has a legitimate chance to become a top-line winger if his skating improves.

How he fits:

The Flyers significantly enhanced their size and talent with the selection of Porter Martone. Considered by scouts to be one of the smartest players in the draft, Martone is an offensive dual threat with excellent playmaking and shooting skills. He possesses a natural competitiveness and physicality that will develop further, undoubtedly making him a fan favorite in Philadelphia.

Martone is projected as a scoring winger who will be challenging to handle as his power forward game matures. The Flyers already have several elite young players, and Martone adds a large frame combined with elite talent, capable of generating offense and executing special plays. He needs one or two years to improve his skating to fully realize his potential as a top-six scorer, but Rick Tocchet is likely to appreciate this player immensely.

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7. Boston Bruins: James Hagens, C

Team: Boston College (H-EAST)

DOB: 11/03/2006 | Ht: 5-10½ | Wt: 177 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 37 | G: 11 | A: 26 | P: 37

Scouting Notes:

Hagens is projected to be a top-line center or one of the NHL`s best second-line centers. He lacks the dynamic flash of Misa, opting instead for a highly intelligent and efficient style of play. He brings a strong work ethic with excellent speed and passing ability that should enable him to effectively drive play at the NHL level. Scouts and executives are impressed with the professional details of his game (including puck support, winning battles, and defensive puck play), believing these traits will ease his transition to the NHL while he develops his offensive impact.

Another season at Boston College could be beneficial for him to further cultivate a more dynamic offensive dimension, potentially elevating him to the top-line center status anticipated during his NTDP season (where he recorded 102 points). After playing on one of college hockey`s top lines alongside Gabe Perreault (New York Rangers) and Ryan Leonard (Washington Capitals), Hagens will now be expected to anchor his own line, generate offense through his own playmaking, and handle a significant matchup role.

Hagens has the potential to be a complete package in the NHL. His understanding of spacing and ability to anticipate plays stands out among his peers. He is smaller and slighter than some other prospects, which causes some teams concern, but he has room to grow physically over the next few years. There is a mix of Clayton Keller and Jack Hughes in his game regarding transition play and creativity.

How he fits:

The organization, which has needed centers, benefits greatly as Hagens drops to No. 7. He is a highly intelligent player with relentless energy, excellent speed, and playmaking ability. There is little doubt he will be a play driver at the NHL level. His professional habits, such as puck support, success in battles, and strong defensive play, are already elite.

Another year just down the road at Boston College means Bruins fans won`t have to travel far to watch their prized prospect. Hagens is expected to step into the Bruins` lineup as their first-line center when he is ready, which David Pastrnak will certainly appreciate. Hagens possesses one of the highest ceilings in this draft class, especially if his offensive game continues to evolve. Bruins fans should be extremely excited about securing their center of the future, as he arguably should not have been available at this point.

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8. Seattle Kraken: Jake O`Brien, C

Team: Brantford (OHL)

DOB: 06/16/2007 | Ht: 6-1¾ | Wt: 172 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 66 | G: 32 | A: 66 | P: 98

Scouting Notes:

Deceptive and incredibly smooth, O`Brien projects to be a point-producing, top-six center with the potential to become a top-line center. The right-handed pivot is among the draft`s best playmakers, regularly creating high-danger scoring opportunities; arguably, he is the best pure creator in the class.

He consistently outmaneuvers defenders, distributes the puck on both forehand and backhand, and employs fakes that leave defenders and goalies scrambling. Development will focus on simplifying offensive plays to reduce turnovers caused by holding the puck for too long.

O`Brien`s shot is an area that requires significant development if his passing is to be an elite threat in the NHL. There is some risk due to his slighter build compared to other available centers, but he has room to gain strength over the next few years. O`Brien`s elite playmaking skills will become even more valuable if he can add explosiveness to his speed and increase his shooting threat.

How he fits:

The Kraken appear to be collecting centers like `Infinity Stones`, but O`Brien`s potential ceiling was too high to pass up at No. 8. O`Brien has exceptional vision, elite playmaking ability, and will undoubtedly help facilitate offensive production. Matty Beniers and Shane Wright offer a two-way game, while O`Brien and Berkly Catton can drive offense.

The Kraken are now deep at the center position and could easily move one or two players to the wing to complete their top six forwards. O`Brien needs a couple of years to physically mature and improve his shot to become a dual-threat offensive player. As he is, he is highly capable of quarterbacking a power play and facilitating offense. There is no need for Seattle to rush his development, and allowing him time to further hone his elite playmaking skills could enhance his projection to a potential first-line forward capable of a point-per-game pace in the NHL.

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9. Buffalo Sabres: Radim Mrtka, D

Team: Seattle (WHL)

DOB: 06/09/2007 | Ht: 6-5¾ | Wt: 207 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 43 | G: 3 | A: 32 | P: 35

Scouting Notes:

A 6-6, right-handed defenseman with decent mobility who plays in all situations has scouts very excited. He is extremely difficult to bypass, regularly stopping attackers in their tracks and breaking up plays. He projects as a top-four, shutdown defenseman due to his excellent stick work, mobility, and transition defense. Mrtka utilizes his mobility to evade pressure, join the offensive rush, and make high-quality passes to the center of the ice.

Mrtka should develop into a strong defender in transition, a reliable penalty killer, and an efficient puck mover. He shoots the puck powerfully and could become a greater scoring threat if he improves his ability to get shots through traffic. While he was a primary puck distributor in Seattle, there are valid concerns about his limited offensive production.

His size and physicality equip him with the tools to become a high-minute, shutdown defenseman if his mobility continues to advance. His late birthday provides ample development time to refine his skating, offensive playmaking, and physicality across all areas of the ice.

How he fits:

A large, right-handed defenseman who plays a robust game, Mrtka is at least two or three years away from playing in the NHL. The Sabres have notably lacked players who play a physical, hard-nosed style, and Mrtka provides that. He is a mobile skater with good puck-moving ability and projects as a shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. Mrtka`s capacity to defend against the rush, funnel attackers wide, and kill plays is very appealing.

Mrtka has a late birthday, suggesting a longer development path than some others, giving him time to enhance his playmaking, choose his physical engagements more effectively, and evolve into a reliable shutdown defender. While some anticipated the Sabres might select a forward, this pick surprised some, but the team evidently felt they needed a defenseman like Mrtka to complement players such as Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power.

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10. Anaheim Ducks: Roger McQueen, C

Team: Brandon (WHL)

DOB: 10/02/2006 | Ht: 6-5¼ | Wt: 197 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 17 | G: 10 | A: 10 | P: 20

Scouting Notes:

Described as `a unicorn` due to being a 6-5 center who skates with the speed and mobility typically seen in smaller players, McQueen was a prominent discussion point throughout the season. He fits the profile of a modern power forward, blending soft skill with physical play. Elite right-handed centers are uncommon in the NHL, and McQueen`s size coupled with his willingness to physically dictate play adds undeniable value. He possesses professional defensive habits that are transferable to the NHL, along with unique offensive potential that is still developing, partly due to time missed from a back injury during his draft season.

McQueen excels in the cycle game, generates offense on the rush, and uses his physical attributes to dominate possession along the boards and protect the puck. Confidence in his projection as an elite top-line center is somewhat tempered by the limited playing time resulting from his back injury. Without the injury, there`s a real possibility McQueen would have been considered near the top of this draft class, given his rare package of skating, skill, and physical gifts – a combination executives dream of.

He represents a classic high-risk, high-reward player; however, his performance at the scouting combine helped demonstrate that his back injury had fully healed. Playing against tougher competition, where McQueen will need to further develop his ability to protect himself, improve puck control, and create offense against larger opponents, will be crucial. If he develops without setbacks, he has the potential to become a two-way force in the NHL for many years.

How he fits:

The Ducks took a significant swing, hoping McQueen will be a home run pick at No. 10. Had he not been sidelined by injury, there`s a strong chance McQueen would have been selected in the top five. McQueen moves with the speed and agility characteristic of a much smaller player. He can physically impose himself, drive play in both ends of the ice, and possesses unique offensive upside.

Anaheim has several high-end forwards, and McQueen likely has the highest potential ceiling among them. He can dominate on the rush, in the cycle, and around the net. The combination of McQueen`s physical gifts, skill, and skating make him an easily projectable power forward capable of changing the momentum of games. If he can stay healthy, build strength, and improve his puck-protection skills, the Ducks have a potentially special player.

Patience will be essential as McQueen requires a few years to develop his skill set, but if he reaches his full potential, he is poised to be a dominant two-way force in the NHL.

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11. Pittsburgh Penguins: Benjamin Kindel, C

Team: Calgary (WHL)

DOB: 04/19/2007 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 176 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 65 | G: 35 | A: 64 | P: 99

Scouting Notes:

Kindel is a scoring powerhouse. Following a 60-point rookie campaign in the WHL in 2023-24, he ascended to elite status this season, finishing seventh in overall league scoring and excelling at even strength.

Despite being undersized, Kindel combines pace, vision, and high-quality instincts. He projects as a middle-six winger with two-way capability. Kindel`s relentless motor compensates for a lack of top-end speed, allowing him to navigate through traffic and execute give-and-go plays with ease. As a dual-threat attacker, he pairs an accurate shot with dangerous passing ability. His elite hockey sense enables him to consistently outsmart opponents and set up teammates with creative plays in high-danger areas with time and space, all while maintaining sound positional play without the puck.

Defensively and on the forecheck, Kindel leverages his intelligence, anticipation, and effort to win battles despite size disadvantages. He will need to refine his skating posture and puck control while adding an extra gear of speed to consistently succeed in the NHL.

While there is potential for Kindel to become a top-six NHL player, he is more likely to settle into a middle-six role as a valuable complementary piece.

How he fits:

Kindel is an offensive facilitator, a brilliant playmaker, and somewhat of a surprise pick at No. 11. Kindel brings high-end hockey sense, allowing him to identify opportunities to set up teammates in open space. He is undersized, but his combination of speed, playmaking, and relentless motor should translate effectively to the NHL.

Kindel`s ceiling is potentially a second-line center who facilitates for his linemates and drives play. If he doesn`t reach that, he is likely a middle-six, secondary producer who plays on the second power-play unit. The Penguins are in need of intelligent players who skate well and generate offense, and they are clearly taking a swing on Kindel`s potential ceiling. If he adds an inch or two in height as he develops over the next two years, a comparison to Brayden Point is apt given similarities in skating, cerebral play, and driving play effectively despite his size.

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12. Philadelphia Flyers: Jack Nesbitt, C

Team: Windsor (OHL)

DOB: 01/12/2007 | Ht: 6-4¼ | Wt: 185 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 65 | G: 25 | A: 39 | P: 64

Scouting Notes:

Nesbitt is an intelligent, two-way center whose game is founded on competitiveness, defensive dependability, and off-puck hockey IQ. He excels defensively by using his 6-4 frame to disrupt plays with physical engagement and smart stick positioning to intercept pucks. His hockey sense consistently puts him in advantageous positions across all three zones, enabling him to create turnovers and execute quick passes to generate dangerous chances off those turnovers.

His offensive potential is largely dependent on his skating, which is an area of concern. His somewhat stiff skating stride and lack of demonstrated flexibility at the combine might limit how much he can improve. Despite flashes of skill, he finds it challenging to maneuver past defenders, and inconsistent puck handling under pressure often disrupts his playmaking.

Nesbitt showed improvement throughout the season, leveraging his size more effectively offensively and initiating physical contact more consistently. If these improvements continue, and he can enhance his skating stride, he projects confidently as a reliable middle-six center who can anchor a defensive line and support more skilled players higher in the lineup.

How he fits:

The Flyers traded with their state rivals, the Penguins, to select Nesbitt. He is a high-floor player whose likely ceiling is a third-line center. Given his height, he has been described as a `hard to play against` center who plays a throwback game, which aligns with the style the Flyers aim to employ.

There were many rumors this week that Nesbitt might be taken early due to his positional value and blend of size, hard skill, and hockey sense. He is a very intelligent player who makes quality passes and plays a reliable game. His skating stride will be the ultimate factor determining his NHL ceiling. If he gains mobility and an extra gear, there is more offensive potential to unlock, but the primary focus will be his checking ability. He needs two or three years to develop, but Nesbitt had one of the most confident, low-variability projections in the draft class as a third-line center.

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13. Detroit Red Wings: Carter Bear, LW

Team: Everett (WHL)

DOB: 11/04/2006 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 179 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 56 | G: 40 | A: 42 | P: 82

Scouting Notes:

Bear is the type of player highly sought after by teams looking for elite instincts and playmaking ability. Before a season-ending injury in March, Bear was one of the CHL`s most dangerous offensive players and a dependable defensive forward. He is versatile, capable of playing both center and wing, and projects as a 65- to 75-point, second-line player, most likely on the wing.

He is a high-quality playmaker, using various passes to create advantages in dangerous areas. His capacity to manipulate defenders and generate space for teammates while drawing coverage towards himself should translate well in the NHL. He has good hands in tight spaces, making him a threat around the net, and is recognized as one of the best offensive facilitators in this draft class.

In addition to his offensive gifts, Bear`s defensive play makes him a quality two-way player. His stick positioning helps him disrupt passes, and he is a persistent forechecker who tracks back effectively on the backcheck and finishes hits. His skating posture needs to become more upright to allow him to develop a more explosive stride that can capitalize on his offensive skills in transition, but his instincts and execution are already present.

Bear offers a good mix of soft and hard skill with projectable traits on both sides of the puck. He is the type of player who should thrive in a matchup role while also contributing offensively.

How he fits:

There is much to admire about Bear`s game, and there`s potential for even greater offensive output. He possesses elite hockey sense, which he utilizes to impact the game in both ends of the ice. A projection as a second-line, two-way player scoring close to 75 points per season should be very exciting for Red Wings fans.

His playmaking skill compensates for a lack of top-end speed and should integrate nicely with the Red Wings` existing forwards. He offers a unique blend of soft and hard skill that makes him reliable in all situations. He can win puck battles, get under opponents` skin, and make a difference across the ice. He will need two or three years to improve his skating and physically mature, but when ready, he should slide right into the Wings` middle six as an impactful player.

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14. Columbus Blue Jackets: Jackson Smith, D

Team: Tri-City (WHL)

DOB: 05/13/2007 | Ht: 6-3¼ | Wt: 195 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 68 | G: 11 | A: 43 | P: 54

Scouting Notes:

Smith is a large, physical defenseman with untapped offensive ability. He possesses the characteristics of a top-four matchup defenseman. He defends the rush effectively, closes gaps, and directs play in transition, making him one of the best neutral-zone, transition defenders in this class. Given the significance of transition defense in a matchup role, Smith has a genuine opportunity to become a player coaches rely on for heavy minutes against top opponents.

His combination of skating, size, and poise, along with an offensive game that showed positive progression throughout the season, reinforces the belief that there is more offensive potential waiting to be unlocked. Playing at Penn State next season should aid this development.

Smith stands 6-3, and executives appreciate the simplicity of his game: reading pressure, disrupting plays, and making effective passes to exit the zone. He lacks explosive skating and the consistent creativity needed to be a high-end offensive contributor at the NHL level, but his reads are strong enough to be a plus transition player and join the rush as a support player.

Smith`s future development will focus on leveraging his excellent mobility to prevent opponent rush offense and becoming a more consistent offensive threat with improved puck management. If Smith can drive play on both sides of the puck in transition and become a power-play threat, there`s a real possibility he develops into a No. 2 defenseman at the NHL level.

How he fits:

The Blue Jackets chose Smith, with Meredith Gaudreau, wife of the late Johnny Gaudreau, making the announcement, adding an emotional moment to the pick. The Penn State commit has untapped offensive potential to complement his package of physicality, size, and skating. He is poised with the puck, makes quality breakout passes, and influences the game. Defensively, he is excellent in transition, closing gaps and forcing opponents to the perimeter.

The Blue Jackets needed a defenseman, and selecting Smith outside the top 12 represents good value. He should reliably fill a matchup role on the second pairing and possesses the potential to play in a No. 2 capacity. Smith`s development will revolve around leveraging his mobility to enhance his offensive game and become a more consistent threat with the puck in the offensive zone.

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15. Vancouver Canucks: Braeden Cootes, C

Team: Seattle (WHL)

DOB: 02/09/2007 | Ht: 5-11¼ | Wt: 183 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 60 | G: 26 | A: 37 | P: 63

Scouting Notes:

Cootes lacks explosive offense currently, but with some development of his shooting mechanics, he has the potential to become a 60-point, two-way center. Scouts admire his consistent foot movement throughout his shifts, his drive to play through the middle of the ice, and his ability to create advantages for himself through his skating and compete level.

His capacity to create space for his teammates and move the puck to advantageous areas of the ice is highly transferable to the NHL. He is proactive in physical engagements, moves the puck effectively to the middle of the ice, and is reliable on both sides of the puck, in every area of the ice.

A strong skater and leader, his floor is likely a third-line checking center, but there is potential for him to develop into a two-way, second-line center.

How he fits:

The Canucks have a need for centers, as President of Hockey Operations Jim Rutherford has frequently mentioned this offseason. While some speculated the Canucks might select the falling Viktor Eklund, they instead addressed an organizational need by drafting Cootes.

He is an all-situations player who can comfortably fill a middle-six role, with a floor as a high-energy, third-line center. He is a quality two-way player with a relentless motor. The Canucks value his compete level, his willingness to drive to the middle of the ice, and a persistent quality to his game.

Cootes has the ability to create space for his teammates, be reliable defensively and offensively, and outskate opponents. There is reason to believe his offensive game will develop further. If it does, there`s a chance he becomes a second-line, play-driving center.

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16. New York Islanders: Victor Eklund, RW

Team: Djurgarden (SWEDEN-2)

DOB: 10/03/2006 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 161 | Shot: R

2024-25 stats: GP: 42 | G: 19 | A: 12 | P: 31

Scouting Notes:

Eklund projects as a top-six forward with a good probability of becoming a top-line contributor. Despite some concerns about his size, Eklund`s playing style is highly transferable to the NHL. He plays significantly larger than his measurements suggest, and there is capacity for him to add strength. Should he grow physically, as has occurred with other prospects, Eklund`s projection becomes more confident as a 70-point producer with a high-end motor and excellent forechecking ability.

Eklund excels in transition and challenges defenders with speed and fearlessness, darting towards the interior and positioning his body effectively to win or shield pucks. His smaller stature has necessitated him learning how to protect the puck using excellent body positioning. If he develops a larger, stronger frame, these skills will make him even more difficult to defend in the offensive zone.

His play without the puck is mature and will quickly earn the trust of NHL coaches. Eklund has the potential to be a difference-maker in a second-line role, and his combination of hard-nosed play with soft skill should translate more smoothly than for some other players.

How he fits:

With their second pick in the first round, the Islanders obtained tremendous value by selecting Eklund. He plays bigger than his frame, showcasing excellent forechecking, hard skill, and puck-protection abilities. He uses his above-average speed to attack the middle of the ice, generating offense in transition and below the faceoff circles.

Eklund possesses a relentless motor and strong competitive drive. This combination of hard-nosed play and soft skill should allow Eklund`s game to transition seamlessly to the NHL. He is expected to fill out physically, and there is a real chance he becomes a significant contributor in the top six on the wing. Eklund`s potential ceiling is higher than that of any other player available at this spot, and he might be ready for the NHL sooner than anticipated. Islanders fans should be extremely enthusiastic about this pick.

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17. New York Islanders: Kashawn Aitcheson, D

Team: Barrie (OHL)

DOB: 09/21/2006 | Ht: 6-1½ | Wt: 196 | Shot: L

2024-25 stats: GP: 64 | G: 26 | A: 33 | P: 59

Scouting Notes:

His projection as a No. 4/5 defenseman places him below players with higher offensive upside. Aitcheson plays with considerable tenacity and aggression, possessing an aura of confidence both with and without the puck. He displays all the characteristics of being a significant challenge for opponents and a reliable No. 4 defender capable of playing tough minutes.

Regardless of whether it`s a preseason game or the playoffs, Aitcheson maintains the same physical style and is unafraid to deliver solid checks on opponents. He needs to improve at choosing his moments for physicality to avoid unnecessary penalties, but he is the type of player who requires opponents to be constantly aware of his presence on the ice. Scouts view him as a hard-nosed, two-way defenseman with considerable bite who can shift the momentum of a game through his physical presence.

He requires development time, as his skating and playmaking abilities are quite raw, but his competitive attributes and the progression of his game this season are highly promising. Aitcheson`s offensive involvement increased as the season progressed; he was more active in rotating with teammates, driving towards high-danger areas, and becoming more effective with open ice.

He is likely two or three years away from being ready to step into the NHL lineup. However, when he does, he is precisely the kind of defenseman every coach and general manager desires on their team.

How he fits:

With their third selection of the first round, the Islanders added a significant amount of grit and physicality in Aitcheson. As one of the meanest and most aggressive defensemen in the draft, Aitcheson is poised to be a nightmare for opposing teams. He is very raw but possesses untapped offensive potential. His competitive nature gives Aitcheson`s playing style a throwback quality, and he is likely to become a fan favorite on the island. He can change the momentum of a game with a big hit but also demonstrated the ability to contribute offensively as the season progressed.

His skating and playmaking are the primary areas for development, but even if he doesn`t exceed 30 points at the NHL level, Aitcheson is the type of defenseman who helps teams win many games. He makes life difficult for opponents and effectively defends his team.