2025 NHL mock draft: Pick predictions, scouting reports

1. San Jose Sharks

Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)

The San Jose Sharks are projected to select Matthew Schaefer, adding a defenseman who is expected to develop into a true number one cornerstone for many years. Schaefer is a dynamic force on both offense and defense. At 6-2, his effortless movement across the ice and exceptional agility make him incredibly difficult to beat in one-on-one defensive situations.

Despite an unfortunate injury at the World Juniors that limited him to 26 games this season, where he was slated for a significant role as an underage player, Schaefer consistently played over 25 minutes per game and positively impacted his team`s performance when healthy. Executives and scouts around the league widely view him as a future elite NHL defender and a crucial building block for a Cup-contending blue line. The Sharks already possess potential franchise forward Macklin Celebrini, and adding Schaefer to the defense is a major boost. Schaefer is expected to be an influential player in transition, contribute on both sides of the puck, handle tough matchups, and quarterback the power play.

Schaefer possesses the talent and skill set to become a top-10 defenseman in the NHL, and Sharks fans can likely anticipate him joining the lineup as early as next season.

2. Chicago Blackhawks

Michael Misa, C, Saginaw (OHL)

After opting for defenseman Artyom Levshunov over Ivan Demidov in last year`s draft, the Chicago Blackhawks find themselves fortunate with Michael Misa available at the second pick in 2025. Misa, an exceptional status player in the OHL, delivered one of the league`s best goal-scoring seasons with an astounding 62 goals in just 65 games. This exceptional center is projected to be a top-line forward and has the potential to form a highly productive offensive duo with Connor Bedard.

Misa`s offensive talent is extraordinary. He processes the game at an elite mental level and executes plays at a blistering speed. He appears ready to step directly into Chicago`s lineup and possesses the talent to become an elite center if his current developmental path continues. When he doesn`t have the puck, Misa demonstrates a remarkable ability to find open areas and has a knack for scoring in crucial moments. His playmaking and goal-scoring abilities are equally dangerous, making him a dual offensive threat. Misa`s competitive drive has steadily improved, evident in better backchecking, covering for teammates, and playing a more complete game. Combined with his dynamic speed and offensive skill, the Blackhawks are poised to acquire another foundational piece for their future.

3. Nashville Predators

James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)

The Nashville Predators have a clear need for skilled players and centers, categories that James Hagens perfectly fits. While he may not possess the same explosive dynamism as Misa or Victor Eklund, Hagens is remarkably effective in his play. He is a well-rounded two-way player expected to provide significant value on both ends of the ice at the NHL level. He brings high-end energy, speed, and the capacity to drive play. He supports the puck effectively, consistently wins battles, and demonstrates a strong understanding of spacing and positioning. The professional details in his game are expected to translate seamlessly to the NHL.

Hagens showcased his playmaking abilities with the U.S. national team development program the previous season, though his dynamic playmaking was less consistent at Boston College this year. He will likely benefit from another season at BC to further develop his offensive traits and regain some of that dynamic edge necessary to become a true difference-maker in the NHL. Without linemates like Gabe Perreault and Ryan Leonard, Hagens will face increased responsibility to drive his line offensively while maintaining defensive accountability.

Hagens has the potential to evolve into a complete NHL player if he can enhance his offensive attributes. His ceiling is very high, and considering Nashville`s history of making bold draft selections, he represents a compelling choice for the Predators.

4. Philadelphia Flyers

Porter Martone, RW, Brampton (OHL)

Porter Martone projects as a potential high-end second-line forward who plays with an edge. He is a dual-threat offensive player, capable of both scoring goals himself and setting up teammates. Despite his size, he isn`t a prototypical power forward but possesses some characteristics reminiscent of a player like Tom Wilson. He is expected to fit well with the Flyers` identity as an agitator who physically imposes himself on opponents. As his game matures, he will likely refine his use of physical play for maximum effectiveness.

Martone`s combination of scoring and facilitating skills should make him a challenging player for NHL defenders to handle. Some concerns exist regarding his foot speed, but skating is a highly coachable skill, and he has already shown significant improvement since the start of the season. If Martone can add explosiveness to his skating, he has the potential to become a long-term first-line, point-producing forward in the NHL. He embodies the type of player who combines the “hard skill” the Flyers appreciate with the “soft skill” that excites fans.

There is strong reason to believe Martone can become a valuable top-six forward with a physical dimension to his game, and the prospect of seeing him play alongside Matvei Michkov is certainly an exciting thought.

5. Boston Bruins

Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton (QMJHL)

Get ready for comparisons to Patrice Bergeron on broadcasts, though those are extremely high expectations. Nevertheless, Caleb Desnoyers possesses special qualities. This large, two-way center from Quebec is the kind of player coaches love because he excels in any assigned role. In crucial, tight games, he prioritizes making intelligent, simple plays, forechecks aggressively, and makes opponents` lives difficult. He leads by example with his effort on both sides of the puck and is effective in all game situations.

Desnoyers is projected to be a quality second-line center with a good chance of reaching first-line potential. He is a smart player with excellent playmaking abilities. While not typically flashy, he is consistently effective and makes intelligent decisions with the puck, making him highly reliable. He performs best in high-pressure situations, finding ways to make the plays necessary for his team to win.

6. Seattle Kraken

Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)

The Seattle Kraken are projected to add a big, physical defenseman in Jackson Smith, widely considered the second-best blueliner available in this draft class. As a pure defender, Smith exhibits all the traits desired in a top-four, matchup defenseman. He is highly effective at defending against rushes, closing gaps quickly, and directing attacking players away from dangerous areas in transition. While his offensive game showed signs of developing later in the season, its limited presence throughout the year slightly reduces confidence in his projection higher than a No. 4/5 defenseman. However, given the importance of transition defense in a matchup role, Smith is likely to develop into a reliable, minute-eating shutdown defender for the Kraken, potentially in a No. 3 role.

Smith addresses a need for Seattle, especially after using previous lottery picks on centers like Matty Beniers and Shane Wright. He brings a good combination of skating, size, and composure to the Kraken`s prospect pool. While the Kraken have promising skilled forward prospects such as Berkly Catton, Eduard Sale, and Carson Rehkopf, they currently lack a projectable top-four defenseman. Although players like Caden Price or Lukas Dragicevic might potentially become second-pairing defenders, Smith immediately elevates to the top of their defensive prospect hierarchy.

7. Buffalo Sabres

Victor Eklund, LW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

The Buffalo Sabres are known for prioritizing skilled players and leveraging analytics in their draft evaluations. Victor Eklund fits this profile perfectly, boasting strong underlying numbers, including a productive season in the Allsvenskan league. His game possesses characteristics that suggest high translatability to the NHL, despite his smaller physical stature. He plays a much bigger game than his measurements might indicate, featuring a high-end motor and excellent forechecking ability.

Eklund excels in transition, attacking defenders with tenacity and fearlessness. He frequently drives towards the net area and uses his body effectively to win puck battles. His play without the puck is notably mature and should complement the skill set of Buffalo`s current roster. The Sabres need a player who can integrate with their existing skilled forwards and bring a “hard skill” element; Eklund fits this description. He shows all the signs of becoming a top-line forward capable of being a significant contributor within the next few years.

8. Anaheim Ducks

Anton Frondell, C/RW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

The Anaheim Ducks are projected to add another quality forward in Anton Frondell, a versatile player who can play both center and right wing. This flexibility is particularly appealing to Anaheim, given their abundance of young players up front. Frondell is coming off one of the most productive seasons by an under-18 player in Allsvenskan history, bouncing back effectively from an early-season injury. He possesses a strong shot and makes intelligent plays with and without the puck. Described as a tactician, he plays with professional-level details, forechecking effectively, attacking the middle of the ice, and demonstrating strength in contested areas.

Frondell has shown capability in driving play even against professional men in the Allsvenskan, which bodes well for his NHL projection. He is projected to become a second-line NHL player capable of producing around 70 points per season. His playing style translates well, and he might be just a year away from earning meaningful minutes in the NHL. The Ducks have significant skill, particularly at center, and Frondell`s two-way versatility will make him easy to deploy across their lineup.

9. Pittsburgh Penguins

Jake O`Brien, C, Brantford (OHL)

The Pittsburgh Penguins are projected to select Jake O`Brien, a right-handed center who is expected to develop into a high-end second-line center in the NHL, with potential upside for a first-line role. O`Brien is considered one of the best playmakers in this draft class, consistently generating high-danger scoring chances. He effectively manipulates defenders, distributes the puck equally well on his forehand and backhand, and uses fakes to deceive defenders and goaltenders. He does exhibit some junior habits, such as occasionally holding the puck too long while seeking the perfect play. If O`Brien can simplify his game and add a step to his skating speed, there is genuine top-line potential.

The Penguins face the prospect of significant voids at the center position in a couple of years with the potential retirements of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Bringing in a player like O`Brien, or perhaps Roger McQueen, to learn and develop under their guidance could facilitate a smoother transition. O`Brien`s two-way game has seen dramatic improvement over the season; he now effectively fills passing lanes, deflects pucks, and supports play all over the ice. His defensive tracking has gotten better, indicating a projectable two-way game at the NHL level.

His high-end playmaking abilities provide real upside, and while there is some risk due to his smaller stature compared to other available players, O`Brien represents a worthwhile swing for the Penguins.

10. New York Islanders

Roger McQueen, C, Brandon (WHL)

The New York Islanders need to continue accumulating elite talent, especially after selecting Cole Eiserman in the 2024 draft. While Roger McQueen comes with some injury concerns, his talent level is something they likely cannot afford to pass up. McQueen is a rare type of player: a 6-5 center who skates with the speed and agility typically seen in players much smaller, perhaps around 5-10. He is a modern power forward, and although the lack of extensive gameplay this season due to injury makes his projection slightly less certain, he possesses superstar two-way center upside. His right-handed shot and size add significant value, as does his willingness to engage physically. He is a quality two-way player with substantial offensive potential.

Had it not been for injuries, there`s a strong possibility McQueen would be discussed among the top five prospects in this draft class because his combination of skating, skill, physicality, and size is exceptionally rare. He is dominant in the cycle game, excels as a transition player, and possesses the skill to create offense off the rush. He represents the complete package of attributes.

He is the embodiment of high-risk, high-reward. If he can remain healthy, he has the potential to be a long-term two-way force in the NHL, particularly benefiting from development time with a team that can afford patience. The Islanders need this type of player in their system and should take the opportunity to select McQueen.

11. New York Rangers

Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)

Selecting Radim Mrtka, a 6-6, right-handed defenseman with good mobility, aligns well with the New York Rangers` potential needs and preferences. He is incredibly difficult for opponents to get around, frequently stopping offensive players effectively. He is projected to be a shutdown defenseman, thanks to his excellent stickwork and ability to angle players away from the middle of the ice. Mrtka possesses the tools to develop into a second-pairing defender, most likely settling into a No. 4 or No. 5 role. He uses his mobility to escape pressure and make reliable first passes without overly complicating the game.

It is unlikely the Rangers will hold a draft position this high in the next season, and defensemen with Mrtka`s physical profile and tools are uncommon. Mrtka should develop into a strong transition defender and a dependable penalty killer, capable of handling around 20 minutes per game reliably. While he lacks significant offensive output, his skating, size, and intelligence provide him with the foundation to become a large, shutdown defender in the NHL.

12. Detroit Red Wings

Carter Bear, C/LW, Everett (WHL)

Detroit Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman has a history of prioritizing skilled players, and Carter Bear fits this mold perfectly. Before a season-ending injury in March, Bear was among the most potent offensive threats in the Canadian Hockey League. He is a skilled playmaker, utilizing various types of passes to deliver the puck to high-danger areas. He also possesses excellent hands around the net and is consistently involved in creating scoring chances. His versatility allows him to play both center and wing, and he is projected as a point-producing second-line forward.

Beyond his offensive talents, Bear exhibits good defensive habits. He effectively positions his stick in passing lanes, forechecks with determination, tracks back well on the backcheck, and finishes checks. The Red Wings selecting a player who combines “hard skill” with defensive reliability is ideal for their middle-six forwards, and Bear appears likely to be ready for NHL action relatively soon.

13. Columbus Blue Jackets

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

With Brady Martin, the Columbus Blue Jackets are expected to add a true blue-collar player who blends physicality with a hard-nosed skill set. His brute strength and relentless will to win pucks make him a nightmare for opponents to contain. Martin projects as a middle-six forward capable of scoring around 20 goals. He is a wrecking ball who helps set the physical tone for his team and draws opponents into intense battles. While the Blue Jackets boast plenty of young talent, Martin`s versatile “Swiss army knife” capability makes him a unique addition.

Unlike many top prospects who might become invisible when their top game isn`t present, Martin consistently finds ways to make an impact through physical engagement, a trait highly translatable to the NHL. There`s a real possibility Martin could develop into a second-line player, but even if his scoring doesn`t fully translate, he would be a valuable member of a third line capable of contributing offensively. His hard-nosed style is increasingly rare in today`s NHL, and Martin`s presence could help create space and make the game easier for skilled forwards like Adam Fantilli, Kirill Marchenko, and Kent Johnson.

14. Utah Hockey Club

Lynden Lakovic, C/LW, Moose Jaw (WHL)

The Utah Hockey Club is projected to land Lynden Lakovic, a 6-4 left winger possessing NHL-translatable scoring ability and good skating for his size. He attacks with linear crossovers, effectively using his large frame to shield the puck, and makes plays using deceptive moves. He has the potential to become a dual-threat winger, adding another scoring option to Utah`s prospect pool. Lakovic is projected with fair confidence to become a middle-six winger based on his tools and size.

For a player of his size, a key area for his development will be the physical side of his game. He needs to become more consistently physically involved, learn to effectively use his body to protect the puck, lean on defenders, and drive his way to the middle of the ice. With his offensive tools, he would become significantly more dangerous if he were more physically engaged. This is certainly a skill that can be developed and would make him much harder for opponents to defend. Given their strong prospect pipeline, Utah can afford to take a swing on prospects with high upside, and Lakovic`s offensive potential makes him a worthwhile gamble.

15. Vancouver Canucks

Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)

There is a strong possibility that Kashawn Aitcheson might be selected before Vancouver`s pick, given the impactful style of game he plays. Aitcheson possesses all the necessary tools to become a physical force on an NHL blue line. Whether it`s a preseason game or the playoffs, Aitcheson plays with the same rugged intensity and is unafraid to deliver powerful hits on opponents. He is the type of player who requires opponents to be constantly aware of his presence on the ice due to his capability for open-ice hits and willingness to finish checks with authority.

It is believed that scouts and management within the Vancouver organization are looking to add these specific qualities to their defensive corps, making Aitcheson an ideal fit. He will require development time, as his skating and playmaking abilities are still somewhat raw, but his competitive attributes and significant development curve this past season are highly promising. Aitcheson`s offensive involvement also progressed as the season went on; he incorporated rotating with teammates, driving towards the high-danger areas, and became more dangerous when given open ice.

16. Montreal Canadiens (from CGY)

Justin Carbonneau, RW, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)

Justin Carbonneau, a French Canadian born player, ticks several boxes for the Montreal Canadiens, including his regional roots. Carbonneau possesses numerous attributes highly valued by NHL teams, including powerful skating and dynamic attacking prowess. He drives offense through his playmaking and skating ability and has the potential to develop into a well-rounded offensive threat in the NHL. Top-six potential is present, although the confidence level in reaching that outcome is slightly lower. Montreal has demonstrated a willingness to take chances on players with high upside, a strategy that has proven successful with players like Cole Caufield and Lane Hutson. The team has an excellent development staff that has been crucial in helping young players reach their potential.

Carbonneau has a physically mature build, but he will need some time to adapt to the increased speed of the professional game and learn to make plays effectively in tighter spaces. Regardless, the Canadiens should be very pleased to acquire him with the pick originally belonging to Calgary.