2025 NHL Mock Draft: Final Top 32 Picks

1. New York Islanders

Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)

This selection appears straightforward. While the narrative around James Hagens, a Long Island native and Islanders fan, is compelling (and will be discussed later), Schaefer is widely considered the undeniable top prospect in this draft class.

Many scouts project him to become a foundational defenseman capable of driving play effectively at both ends of the rink. The Islanders face uncertainty on their blue line with key players like Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov requiring new contracts. Neither player is expected to sign team-friendly deals, and both have been mentioned in trade rumors. Against this backdrop, the Islanders likely see Schaefer as their future cornerstone defenseman. If they decide to keep Dobson, Schaefer`s arrival would allow Dobson to potentially take on a less demanding role, easing some of his workload.

Schaefer missed most of his draft year due to injury. While another year of development in the NCAA would likely benefit him, this seems improbable. Even without that, the Islanders can realistically anticipate him stepping into a significant role in their lineup as a rookie. It wouldn`t be surprising to see Schaefer quarterbacking the power play, playing top-four minutes, and establishing himself as a key part of the Islanders` defense corps very early in the upcoming season.

2. San Jose Sharks

Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)

There`s some speculation surrounding the Sharks` pick ahead of draft weekend. They clearly need defensive help, and are reportedly interested in Anton Frondell, a center. However, passing on a talent like Misa for any reason would be ill-advised. While a gap exists between Schaefer and Misa, the difference in talent between Misa and the prospects ranked below him is even more significant.

Adding Misa, a dynamic offensive player with strong two-way capabilities, to a young roster that already includes Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith is a highly exciting prospect. Misa can play both center and wing, but his two-way game is particularly valuable at center, offering the Sharks a potent one-two punch down the middle for years to come. A top-six forward group featuring Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Misa—all aged 22 or younger—would provide the Sharks with a formidable offensive threat and reliable two-way play drivers at center for the foreseeable future.

Misa brings explosive scoring ability, exceptional speed, and elite hockey sense, combined with a relentless work ethic. It`s plausible he could step into the NHL lineup this season and have an impact similar to Celebrini`s rookie performance in 2024-25, given his completeness as a player and his professional habits across the ice.

3. Chicago Blackhawks

Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

This pick marks where the draft truly becomes unpredictable. Rumors suggest Chicago might trade this selection, but if they keep it, Frondell or Porter Martone seem to be the most probable choices. While Hagens might be the highest-ranked player available, it`s reported that Chicago is looking for a larger forward to complement Connor Bedard.

In this scenario, Chicago would hope Frondell can immediately contribute to the lineup, playing behind Bedard and providing two-way value. He possesses an elite shot release and a knack for finding open ice to get his shots off. Frondell would benefit from another season developing outside the NHL to become a more complete, play-driving player before making the jump.

Once he`s ready, the Blackhawks could position Frondell opposite Bedard on the power play, giving them two players with outstanding shot releases on the flanks. Ideally, Frondell would anchor the second line as a powerful two-way center, establishing a formidable one-two center punch for Chicago for years.

4. Utah Mammoth

Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

There`s a significant chance Utah trades this pick. If they do, it`s likely Hagens would be selected by the acquiring team. However, Utah has expressed a desire for players with “hard skill.” Two prospects who fit this description are Caleb Desnoyers and Brady Martin. Both are legitimate options for the Mammoth, who aim to add physicality to a top six that includes Clayton Keller, Logan Cooley, and Dylan Guenther.

It`s widely known that Martin is high on Utah`s list, and he solidified this standing with an excellent impression during his meeting with Mammoth management at the scouting combine. Martin, described as a “farm boy,” is drawing significant interest from multiple teams, including the Flyers and Bruins. Some believe he could develop into a player similar to Sam Bennett, who might not light up the scoresheet in the regular season but becomes a “mammoth” force in the playoffs. Utah feels they need more tenacity and physical presence at the top of their lineup, and among players available at this spot, Martin brings the most intensity.

5. Nashville Predators

Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)

No team has scouted Martone as extensively as Nashville; upper management was reportedly in attendance to watch him play on numerous occasions. Martone might possess the best hockey sense and vision among players in this draft class, and he`s also considered one of the most skilled puck handlers. Adding an elite shot to his playmaking abilities makes him a 6-foot-3 forward with both physical and technical skill, boasting an extremely high potential.

While he might not become another Mikko Rantanen, Rantanen is identified as his second-closest comparable in scouting models in terms of NHL potential, alongside Cole Caufield (though obviously not in size). If Barry Trotz, the Predators` GM, aims to further develop Martone`s physical game to make him a truly imposing force, he could become a dual-threat forward posing significant challenges for opponents. If Nashville doesn`t select Martone, Trotz has emphasized valuing upside and skill. If he prioritizes this, Hagens seems like the ideal fit. However, there`s also a subtle feeling that Nashville could potentially acquire an NHL player and more from the Islanders in exchange for this pick if Hagens is still available.

6. Philadelphia Flyers

James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)

The Flyers` most pressing need is at center. If Hagens is still available for them at No. 6, they should follow a similar strategy to their Matvei Michkov selection and take the player who unexpectedly dropped to them. The prospect of adding both Michkov and Hagens to their top forward group without drafting in the top five in either of those years would provide enormous value to the organization.

Hagens would immediately become the Flyers` top center prospect. The team isn`t pressured to rush him through college, with established centers like Sean Couturier, Noah Cates, and recent acquisition Trevor Zegras already on the NHL roster. When he`s ready, Hagens can step in and provide the offensive spark the Flyers desperately need. His speed, puck handling, and exceptional playmaking abilities would pair well with Michkov, especially if he fully recovers his play-driving capability during another season at Boston College. The fine details of his game should help him earn the coach`s trust and become a central figure in the Flyers` offense for many years.

7. Boston Bruins

Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)

This pick is another potential trade candidate. However, if the Bruins make the selection, Desnoyers would be an excellent fit for the organization. A French-Canadian two-way center known for strong shutdown ability, who performs his best in crucial games and acts as a leader, should sound quite familiar and appealing to Bruins fans.

Desnoyers is a consistent winner who elevates his game when the stakes are highest. He excels in contested areas, is a skilled playmaker, and possesses high-end hockey sense. His defensive game is already considered NHL-ready. If he can improve his speed, the Bruins would have a legitimate offensive threat capable of handling challenging matchups in key game situations.

8. Seattle Kraken

Jake O`Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)

Following Schaefer and Misa, there`s a group of approximately six consensus top prospects. Seattle would likely select whichever player from that group is still available. However, the Kraken also have a need for defensemen, which could lead them to trade down a few spots to target prospects like Radim Mrtka or Jackson Smith.

If they remain at pick No. 8, O`Brien seems like the most probable selection, unless they opt for Roger McQueen. Seattle already boasts considerable depth at center with young players like Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Berkly Catton, all 22 or younger. O`Brien is a highly talented prospect who could potentially allow the Kraken to shift Catton to the wing in the top six.

O`Brien offers more high-end playmaking ability than either Wright or Beniers. He will have time to develop physically and increase his speed to reach his potential as a top-six playmaking center. He is projected to become a significant offensive force, quarterbacking the power play and significantly boosting the production of his wingers.

9. Buffalo Sabres

Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)

The Sabres have a decent prospect pool, but the organization specifically needs high-end center and right-handed defensive prospects. Both Mrtka and McQueen are expected to be available at this position, but it feels like the large defenseman is their target.

Mrtka is a 6-6, right-handed defenseman with promising mobility and strong transition defense skills. He could become an ideal partner for existing defensemen like Rasmus Dahlin or Owen Power. Adding Mrtka would provide the Sabres with another quality defenseman who projects to have strong shutdown capabilities as the organization strives to end the NHL`s longest playoff drought.

10. Anaheim Ducks

Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)

The Ducks might very well trade this pick for immediate help at the NHL level, as GM Pat Verbeek has been quite active this offseason. However, if they keep the pick, selecting a towering center who is considered a top-five talent in the draft makes significant sense.

The Ducks met with McQueen for dinner at the combine and appear to have thoroughly researched his back injury history. If the Ducks are confident the injury will not be a long-term issue, adding a powerful 6-5 center with the potential to become a dominant two-way player is an easy decision. The only factor potentially limiting McQueen`s ceiling is his physical durability. If his body holds up, he could emerge as one of the best players from this draft class. This potential makes the pick worth the risk for the Ducks.

11. Pittsburgh Penguins

Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)

Holding consecutive picks, the Penguins may attempt to move up to secure an elite prospect; the combined value of their picks is nearly equivalent to the third overall selection, so trading up is likely a consideration. Failing that, the Penguins have the opportunity to add two significant players to their prospect pipeline.

If McQueen is still available, they would likely consider him strongly. However, adding Smith to their blue-line depth would be a solid move for the Penguins, who currently have prospects like Owen Pickering and Harrison Brunicke on defense. Smith is large, physical, and possesses legitimate offensive potential. He should be capable of playing a shutdown role while also driving offense from the back end. He shows poise with the puck and will be geographically close to the Penguins` organization while attending Penn State.

There are many appealing aspects to Smith`s game, and the Penguins could greatly benefit from a player with his combination of size, skating ability, composure, and offensive upside.

12. Pittsburgh Penguins (from New York Rangers)

Viktor Eklund, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

With this second pick, the Penguins land another player with potential close to the top 10. Carter Bear and Lynden Lakovic are also possible selections, given their outstanding offensive talent.

Eklund`s playing style translates effectively to the NHL, and he has the potential to be a 70-plus point producer in a top-line role. His excellent forechecking, willingness to play physically, fearlessness in driving to the net, and two-way play give him the attributes to become a player similar to Seth Jarvis.

He is expected to be NHL-ready relatively soon, which is a significant factor for a team with as many veteran players as the Penguins. Having Eklund learn from the future Hall of Famers near the end of their careers could have a lasting developmental impact, helping Eklund reach his ceiling as a first-line offensive engine.

13. Detroit Red Wings

Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)

The Red Wings have a specific player profile they often target, and fortunately for them, several players available in this range fit that description: Bear, Eklund, and Justin Carbonneau. It`s likely at least two, possibly all three, will be available here.

Bear`s elite instincts and playmaking abilities are attractive to many teams, including Detroit. Combined with one of the strongest competitive drives in the draft class, Bear exhibits all the traits of a winger capable of driving play, with reliable two-way responsibility, reminiscent of Zach Hyman.

Detroit already possesses several quality young centers. Bear`s combination of playmaking skill and ability to finish around the net could see him become a key player on the power play and an offensive facilitator. He would be an excellent fit for the Red Wings as a prospect projected to be a top-six contributor.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets

Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)

There`s a distinct possibility Columbus trades this pick for immediate help. However, if they keep it, this feels like the latest Aitcheson would be selected, given the Blue Jackets` need for defensive prospects.

While Logan Hensler is also a strong possibility here (and Columbus likes him considerably), there are only a few scenarios where Aitcheson might still be available for the Blue Jackets` second first-round pick at No. 20, making the selection here logical.

With Aitcheson, the Blue Jackets are adding a raw defensive talent who has the potential to develop into a formidable and challenging player for opponents, while also providing two-way value. As one of the less polished prospects, Aitcheson requires time to develop, but there is strong confidence in his potential to become a solid middle-pair defenseman who is particularly effective in the postseason.

15. Vancouver Canucks

Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)

In what is arguably the worst-kept secret in hockey, Vancouver is actively seeking a center. The Canucks met with Cootes for dinner at the combine, have scouted him extensively throughout the season, and were reportedly very impressed by his demeanor during the combine process. Jack Nesbitt could also be considered here, as the Canucks favor centers with size, but Cootes and Cole Reschny are seen as having higher offensive ceilings.

Cootes is projected to develop into a middle-six center with reliable two-way ability, excellent instincts away from the puck, and consistent offensive production in the range of 55 to 65 points annually. If Aitcheson were still available, they might find the large, physical defenseman difficult to pass up.

16. Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames)

Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)

The Canadiens have a dynamic offensive presence on their blue line in Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson, and Reid could be an ideal partner for him. Montreal management scouted Reid heavily this season, leading many to believe he is a target with one of the team`s two first-round selections. While the Canadiens might also consider Aitcheson, Reid`s ability to drive play through excellent skating and sound decision-making is highly appealing.

He possesses the tools to become a solid top-four defenseman and doesn`t need to rely heavily on offense to provide value. He is considered less risky than some other available defensemen, with projected offensive contribution and strong mobility that enhances his transition game.

17. Montreal Canadiens

Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)

Carbonneau ranks higher on some personal draft boards than the consensus due to his perceived high potential as a power forward. With Juraj Slafkovsky already part of the team, the Canadiens need additional size to complement core players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Ivan Demidov.

Carbonneau has the potential to develop into a dual-threat forward in a top-six role, showcasing high-end creativity. If everything aligns and his decision-making improves, there is a possibility Carbonneau becomes a powerful, play-driving forward. The Canadiens` development staff is strong and has a track record of success. Given Carbonneau`s significant upside, he represents a worthwhile investment for the hometown team.

18. Calgary Flames (from New Jersey Devils)

Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)

Calgary needs to add depth at center in its prospect pool, and Reschny offers good value at this pick range. He is a skilled playmaker who facilitates offense and possesses the best hockey sense among the centers available here. While he doesn`t have significant size, he will need to play effectively in high-traffic areas to reach his potential as a second-line center, but the offensive tools are present.

The finer details of his game are nearly NHL-ready, including strong performance in battles, effective connective play, and proactive forechecking. There is potential for him to develop into a dual-threat player who can both make plays and shoot, which aligns with traits valued by the Flames organization.

19. St. Louis Blues

Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)

The Blues have historically used a significant portion of their early draft picks on defensemen, and the pressing need for centers in their prospect pipeline cannot be overlooked.

Nesbitt has garnered considerable positive attention from team executives since the scouting combine and could realistically be a top 20 selection. The large center is likely projected to top out as a third-line, two-way checking forward, but could see increased offensive potential if he improves his skating speed. At 6-4, he brings size, strength, physicality, and the ability to effectively shut down opponents. These attributes are appealing to many teams, including the Blues.

20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota Wild)

Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)

It`s quite possible the Blue Jackets could select another defenseman with their second first-round pick, and this outcome seems more likely than not. Lynden Lakovic would be a strong candidate if available, but Hensler is a player highly valued by Columbus management.

Hensler is an effective defender in the neutral zone and in transition, utilizing his excellent mobility to proactively engage opponents and maintain a tight gap. This right-shot defenseman has the potential to become a quality No. 2 or 3 defenseman if he reaches his ceiling and continues to enhance his offensive game.

21. Ottawa Senators

Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw (WHL)

Lakovic makes significant sense for the Senators. Management reportedly has high regard for the large, dual-threat winger with considerable untapped physical potential. He is intelligent, moves remarkably well for his 6-4 frame, and should be able to build chemistry in the top six regardless of his center. If Lakovic can effectively develop his physicality, the Senators could have a legitimate power forward who is a dual-threat scorer capable of being a difference-maker.

22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado Avalanche)

Daniil Prokhorov, F, St. Petersburg (MHL)

Prokhorov, often described as a “freight train on skates,” is gaining significant momentum heading into the first round. The consensus among scouts is that many teams admire his style of play and anticipate him being drafted in the early 20s. Teams holding multiple first-round selections often use one of them to take a calculated risk on a high-upside prospect, and Prokhorov certainly fits this description.

The Flyers are likely to take at least one significant swing with their first-round picks. A large, intensely physical player with raw offensive skills that could translate into a power forward is exactly the type of talent that new head coach Rick Tocchet would likely be very enthusiastic about developing.

23. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning)

Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)

Given their draft positions at fifth and 23rd, the Predators are highly likely to select a forward with their earlier pick, unless they trade it. However, with their prospect pool being thin on defense, Boumedienne is a logical choice for them here.

GM Barry Trotz tends to favor prospects with high upside, and Boumedienne possesses the most potential among the defensemen available in this range. He has genuine offensive potential, is an effective passer transitioning the puck, and is capable of playing a two-way transition game on a second pairing. If Logan Hensler were still available, he would be a major consideration, and Blake Fiddler is also likely in the discussion, though Boumedienne and potentially Hensler offer higher upside.

24. Los Angeles Kings

Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)

As noted in analysis of prospect pool needs, the Kings have very little depth among defensive prospects. Fortunately for them, a 6-5 right-handed defenseman with NHL connections is available at this spot in the projected draft.

Fiddler is a mobile skater who is effective at stopping opponents` transitions. He has above-average ability to retrieve pucks and is projected to become a reliable shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. This pick range aligns well with Fiddler`s projected value, and he fits perfectly with what the Kings require. He will have time to develop into the large, shutdown defender the Kings will rely on in the coming years.

25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs)

Vaclav Nestrasil, F, Muskegon (USHL)

Increasingly, reports suggest teams are high on Nestrasil`s potential as a skilled power forward. At 6-5, he adds much-needed size to the Blackhawks` prospect pool without sacrificing offensive potential.

He is considered a longer-term development project, but his blend of passing, hockey sense, and playmaking abilities is appealing. The tantalizing high-end upside as a power forward is significant because he has considerable room to physically mature. If he learns to effectively utilize his physicality, he could become a winger who creates space, capable of playing a dual-threat role in the top six with a quality shot release. The potential here is worth the investment for a Chicago team that lacks a large power forward in its prospect system.

26. Nashville Predators (from Vegas Golden Knights, via SJ)

Malcolm Spence, F, Erie (OHL)

Once considered a potential top-10 prospect, Spence would be a strong addition to the Predators` prospect pool. They might consider selecting goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen here, but it is thought he could still be available when they pick again at No. 35.

Spence brings a solid combination of speed, physicality, and persistent two-way play. He is the type of player who will aggressively pursue pucks, create space for teammates, forecheck effectively to generate turnovers, and be reliable in key situations. Spence has more offensive potential to unlock, and there is a real possibility he develops into a disruptive, second-line winger capable of handling tough matchups. The Predators do not currently have a prospect with Spence`s specific attributes, and he would represent good value if he can recapture his performance from last season.

27. Washington Capitals

Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)

The Capitals tend to favor specific player profiles and are not afraid to take risks with their picks. Their prospect pool is in significant need of centers. While Milton Gastrin might be a safer selection, drafting Kindel—who recorded 99 points in the WHL this season—at No. 27 provides excellent value.

Many project Kindel to play wing at the NHL level, but he possesses the hockey sense, playmaking skills, and speed to potentially succeed as an NHL center. Kindel`s draft-year performance profile is notably similar to Brayden Point`s. While Kindel may not ultimately become Brayden Point, the possibility of such development makes this selection well worth it.

28. Winnipeg Jets

Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)

The Jets` prospect pool is notably thin on defense. Their scouting staff has spent extensive time observing the London Knights, making Brzustewicz a familiar prospect to them.

As the season progressed, Brzustewicz demonstrated offensive instincts through his puck movement and ability to join the rush. There is significant room for his offensive game to grow, and he is expected to be London`s premier defenseman next season. This right-shot defenseman provides the Jets with a defenseman projected to be effective in transition, possessing good puck-moving skills and skating ability, and should comfortably fit into a second pairing down the road.

29. Carolina Hurricanes

Ryker Lee, F, Madison (USHL)

The Hurricanes have a specific type of prospect they target, typically favoring players with high-end skill and projectable upside. It appears likely they will choose between Ryker Lee and Cullen Potter here.

Lee`s statistical profile is slightly stronger, and he possesses elite playmaking ability, puck handling skills, a powerful shot, and offensive instincts. His capacity to identify open ice and execute either a shot or a precise play should translate to the NHL level. His skating needs improvement to fully capitalize on these talents, but given that skating is often considered the most coachable trait, Lee`s skill package makes him a potentially significant draft success.

30. San Jose Sharks (from Dallas Stars)

Cullen Potter, F, Arizona State (NCAA)

If Potter is still available at this pick, adding the fastest player in the draft would represent significant value for the Sharks.

While they might ideally prefer to select a defenseman, Potter is too valuable an asset for a rebuilding team to pass up. His promising development at the NCAA level suggests he could become another component of a highly skilled top-six forward group in San Jose. There is still room for Potter to develop, and given his progression in the two-way game, this speedy forward with an excellent shot release provides the young Sharks with another offensive player who also projects to have defensive quality.

31. Philadelphia Flyers (from Edmonton Oilers)

Bill Zonnon, F, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)

Selecting a forward who demonstrated strong performance in the playoffs, possesses two-way ability, and exhibits a relentless playing style seems like a quintessential Philadelphia Flyer move.

Zonnon displays some of the best attention to detail among players in the draft, including excellent forechecking, good defensive instincts, and a willingness to compete in challenging areas to win puck battles. He plays a style that translates well to the professional level and consistently gives maximum effort. The Flyers will require players capable of filling these roles as they aim to contend in the future, and Zonnon has projectable offensive playmaking attributes. If he can enhance his skating through improvements to his stride mechanics, there`s a clear path for him to become a fan favorite playing in the middle six.

32. Calgary Flames (from Florida Panthers)

Milton Gastrin, F, MoDo (J20 Nationell)

If Calgary selects Reschny with their earlier first-round pick, it`s probable they will take another center with this selection.

Gastrin has a relatively safe projection as a bottom-six center. He is more of a play-driving forward than he is sometimes credited for and has shown the ability to compete effectively against highly skilled players. He is a prospect with a high floor who demonstrated flashes of greater offensive potential than previously thought this season. At a minimum, his instincts and supportive puck play should enable him to become a reliable member of a checking line, trusted by coaches in crucial game situations.