New York, N.Y. — The New York Islanders emerged as the top pick in the 2025 NHL Draft during a lottery event held Monday, making a surprising leap from the 10th to first position. Meanwhile, the Utah Hockey Club raised eyebrows by progressing from the 14th to the 4th pick, enhancing their opportunity to select a premium prospect.
With the draft order finalized, experts and analysts have begun crafting mock drafts. This exercise aims to forecast potential selections based on team needs and player potential in the upcoming draft, scheduled for June 27 and 28 in Los Angeles.
The Islanders, navigating a period of organizational upheaval, have a critical decision ahead. Many speculate that defenseman Matthew Schaefer from the Erie Otters in the OHL could be their prime target. Schaefer, regarded as a foundational piece for any rebuilding team, presents a solution to the Islanders’ pressing need for defensive stability.
For the San Jose Sharks, the second overall selection opens doors to add another talented player to their ranks. Center Michael Misa, who shone in the OHL this past season, represents a strong fit. His chemistry with Igor Chernyshov, a recent pick by the Sharks, could bolster the team’s future lineup.
As the Chicago Blackhawks eye the draft, they are likely to consider forward Porter Martone from Brampton. Chicago has loaded up on skilled forwards in recent drafts but lacks size and physicality. Martone’s blend of aggression and finesse could make him an ideal complement to their existing talent.
The Utah Hockey Club’s rise in the draft order heralds new possibilities. Center Caleb Desnoyers, known for his two-way play and scoring ability in the QMJHL, may serve as a vital addition. His skill set could mesh well with existing talents such as Logan Cooley, as the club looks to solidify its competitive future.
Meanwhile, the Nashville Predators, selecting fifth, might find an opportunity to snag center James Hagens from Boston College. Known for his impressive offensive capabilities, Hagens has the potential to become the standout American player they’ve been missing, especially as they seek to rejuvenate their forward ranks.
The Philadelphia Flyers, currently picking sixth, are positioned to enhance their center depth by selecting Anton Frondell from Djurgården. With a deep crop of centers available, Frondell represents a promising asset for a team looking to pair young talent with promising players like Matvei Michkov.
Other teams, such as the Boston Bruins and Seattle Kraken, are also closely watching the board. The Bruins need help at center and may consider Jake O’Brien, a right-shot center from Brantford. Meanwhile, the Kraken, focused on defensive development, could draft Radim Mrtka, a talented right-shot defenseman from Seattle, adding crucial depth to their blue line.
As mock drafts reveal varying outcomes, player stock continues to fluctuate leading up to the draft day. The anticipation builds, with teams evaluating talent and making strategic decisions that could impact their futures for years to come. The excitement surrounding the upcoming draft reflects not only the promise of new talent but also the changing landscape of the NHL.