The 2025 NHL Entry Draft is being held this Friday (Round 1) and Saturday (Rounds 2-7) at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
This page offers live updates and comprehensive analysis for each selection made in the first round, including scouting evaluations and insights into how each player fits with their new team.
Round 1
1. New York Islanders Select 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 widely considered a potential true No. 1 defenseman for the future, offering a dynamic presence on both offense and defense. He possesses exceptional skating and mobility, allowing him to effectively shut down opponents and generate offense through strong transition play.
Executives and scouts project him to become an elite NHL blueliner and a foundational piece for a championship-caliber team. His ability to control play from the back end, handle tough assignments, and quarterback a power play – combined with high praise for his character and leadership qualities – leads many to believe Schaefer has the tools to be a top-10 defender in the league and potentially wear an `A` or `C`.
Team Fit:
After trading Noah Dobson earlier in the day, the Islanders drafted their potential franchise defenseman. Schaefer excels in all aspects of the game and is a dynamic skater with elite mobility. He is expected to take on challenging matchups, help the Islanders break out of their zone with smooth passes and carries, and drive offense from the blue line. He profiles as a future No. 1 defenseman capable of logging 25-28 minutes per night and leading the power play.
Schaefer`s ability to dictate play from the defensive end is a potentially game-changing asset for the Islanders. He is highly likely to start the season in the NHL lineup after attending development camp. Don`t be surprised if he`s running the power play and playing significant minutes by November. A visibly emotional Schaefer embraced his family after putting on the Islanders jersey, featuring a cancer awareness patch, sharing his excitement and emotions through tears, which resonated with many beyond just Islanders fans.
2. San Jose Sharks Select 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 performances in recent history during the 2024-25 season, netting 62 goals in just 65 games. He is projected to be a top-line forward capable of consistently reaching over 90 points per season in the NHL.
Misa possesses elite offensive instincts, processing the game at a high level and executing plays rapidly. Scouts believe he is NHL-ready and has the potential to develop into an elite top-line center. Without the puck, Misa is adept at finding open spaces in defensive coverage and has a knack for performing well in crucial moments. His combination of high-end playmaking and scoring ability makes him a constant dual threat in the offensive zone.
Team Fit:
The Sharks kept everyone guessing until the very last moment but ultimately selected Misa. He is a special talent who adds a second elite two-way center to the organization`s depth. He projects as a first-line star, offering a dual threat with his playmaking and scoring abilities, highlighted by his 62 goals in 65 OHL games.
If Misa`s two-way game continues to improve, there is a real possibility that the Sharks could boast two centers capable of dominating play in all three zones, especially with 2024 No. 1 pick Macklin Celebrini already in the system. On the power play, Misa can facilitate, pose a shooting threat, and carry the puck on zone entries. His dual capabilities allow him to play various roles, including the bumper, flank, or down low. With this pick, the Sharks have the potential for one of the best one-two punches down the middle for years to come.
3. Chicago Blackhawks Select 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 who can play both center and right wing. His adaptability is appealing to teams, although many believe his highest potential in the NHL is as a winger.
Coming off one of the most productive seasons by an under-18 player in Allsvenskan history, Frondell confidently projects as a first-line NHL forward. He is a smart player who dissects defenders in one-on-one situations and breaks down defensive coverage in the offensive zone. The details of his game, such as his excellent forechecking, willingness to attack the middle, and high-end anticipation on both sides of the puck, are highly translatable. He has demonstrated play-driving ability against men in the Allsvenskan, a trait that has translated well to the NHL for past prospects. He is projected to produce between 75-85 points per season. His style of play excites executives about his potential to step into the league within the next 18 months.
Team Fit:
It was widely known that Chicago aimed to add size upfront, and Frondell fits that need perfectly. He is a versatile player who can operate at center or on the wing and brings an excellent two-way game. He is confidently projected as a first-line forward capable of beating defenders one-on-one, driving play in both zones, and likely scoring nearly a point per game.
He plays effectively in high-traffic areas and has the potential to score 30-plus goals in the NHL thanks to his excellent shot. Frondell is likely a year away from the NHL and probably two or three years from reaching his full potential as a top-line play driver. Chicago can utilize him as a center behind Connor Bedard or potentially play him on Bedard`s line to leverage his versatility.
4. Utah Mammoth Select 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 both offensive and checking assignments effectively. He makes smart, simple plays, brings a physical presence on the forecheck, and generally makes life difficult for opposing defenders.
He projects as a quality second-line center with a decent possibility of becoming a first-line player. He is intelligent, possesses quick hands, and has playmaking ability. While not flashy, he is consistently effective and makes intelligent decisions with the puck. As one scouting director put it, `he`s the type of player you win with.` Some have quietly drawn comparisons, albeit lofty ones, to players like Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews.
Team Fit:
The Mammoth kept everyone guessing about whether they would trade or keep the pick. Ultimately, they retained it and selected Desnoyers. He is an all-situations player and one of the best two-way talents available in the draft. He is a natural winner who adapts his game to whatever is needed to succeed – producing offense when required or shutting down the opponent`s best players.
Utah needed size and two-way capability to complement players like Logan Cooley, Clayton Keller, and Dylan Guenther, and Desnoyers provides exactly that. He is expected to be NHL-ready sooner than many anticipate due to his advanced professional habits. He projects as a play-driving, two-way, second-line center that the Mammoth can rely on in key situations. As mentioned, there are elements of Jonathan Toews` game in Desnoyers, which should excite Mammoth fans, management, and coaches.
5. Nashville Predators Select 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 consistently scoring 20 goals, with the potential upside of a second-line forward.
He is a tenacious player who brings value in all three zones, both with and without the puck. Martin generated significant buzz among scouts after an excellent performance at the IIHF Under-18 Championship, leading many to believe he could be selected very early in the first round. He is a tireless worker without an off switch, combining physicality with hard skill. He is difficult to contain due to his strength and forces defenders into difficult situations with his good speed and willingness to make `winning` plays.
Several teams noted how impressive Martin was during combine interviews. This combination of an attractive personality and a hard-nosed playing style is a rare blend highly valued by many scouts who see him as the type of player needed to win in the playoffs. His mention of Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett as a role model undoubtedly captured attention.
Team Fit:
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 tighter and more physical, capable of swinging momentum with a brilliant forecheck or a big hit.
His hard-nosed playing style was very appealing to many teams, especially following the recent success of Sam Bennett and the Panthers. Martin requires at least another season or two to develop his offensive game. While the Predators passed on players like James Hagens and Porter Martone who were still on the board, they clearly believe Martin can be an impactful player for years to come.
6. Philadelphia Flyers Select 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 big, intelligent forward, Martone is a dual-threat offensive player capable of both scoring himself and setting up teammates. He is projected to be a second-line scoring winger who should receive significant power-play time.
His competitive nature suggests he will become an effective agitator as he learns to physically impose himself on opponents. While he needs to refine his competitiveness and physicality for maximum effectiveness, he possesses the unique combination of offensive talent and competitive drive that teams highly covet. His blend of scoring ability, size, and hard skill makes him a very attractive prospect. Although his most confident projection is as a top-six forward, Martone has a legitimate chance to develop into a top-line winger if his skating improves.
Team Fit:
The Flyers added significant size and talent with Porter Martone. Considered by scouts to be one of the smartest players in the draft, Martone is a dual-threat offensive player with excellent playmaking and shooting abilities. He has a competitive edge and physicality that will undoubtedly develop further, likely making him a fan favorite in Philadelphia.
Martone projects as a scoring winger who will be challenging to handle as he develops his power forward game. The Flyers boast several elite young players, and Martone, with his large frame and elite talent, can create offense and make special plays. He needs a year or two to improve his skating to fully unlock his potential as a top-six scorer, but his style is one that coaches like Rick Tocchet are likely to appreciate.
7. Boston Bruins Select 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 as a top-line center or potentially one of the NHL`s best second-line centers. He is less dynamic than Misa, favoring a highly cerebral and efficient style of play. He brings a strong work rate, excellent speed, and passing ability that should allow him to effectively drive play at the NHL level. Scouts and executives are impressed with the professional details of his game (puck support, battle winning, defensive play), believing these traits will ease his transition to the NHL while he develops his offensive game.
Another season at Boston College could help him further develop the dynamic offensive element that impressed scouts during his NTDP season (where he recorded 102 points). After playing on one of college hockey`s top lines with Gabe Perreault and Ryan Leonard, Hagens will now be relied upon to drive his own line, create offense through his playmaking, and take on a significant matchup role. Hagens has the potential to become a complete NHL player. His understanding of spacing and ability to anticipate plays stands out among his peers. His smaller, slighter build is a concern for some teams, but he possesses a blend of transition play and creativity reminiscent of players like Clayton Keller and Jack Hughes.
Team Fit:
An organization in need of centers is fortunate as Hagens falls to them at No. 7. He is a highly cerebral player with a relentless motor, excellent speed, and strong playmaking ability. There is little doubt he will be a play driver at the NHL level. His professional habits, including strong puck support, battle success, and solid defensive play, are already top-notch.
Another year nearby 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 ready, which is something David Pastrnak will surely appreciate. Hagens possesses one of the highest ceilings in the draft class, especially if his offensive game continues to evolve. Bruins fans should be extremely excited to have their potential center of the future, particularly as many felt he should not have been available at this pick.
8. Seattle Kraken Select 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 as a point-producing, top-six center with the potential to become a top-line center. The right-handed pivot is considered one of the best playmakers in the draft, consistently creating high-danger scoring chances; some argue he is the single best pure creator available. He regularly manipulates defenders, distributes the puck effectively on both his forehand and backhand, and uses fakes that leave defenders and goalies bewildered. Development will involve simplifying his offensive plays to reduce turnovers caused by holding the puck too long.
O`Brien`s shot is an area that requires necessary development if his passing is to be an elite threat in the NHL. There is some risk associated with him being slighter than other centers available, but he has room to gain strength over the next few years. O`Brien`s elite playmaking skills would become even more valuable if he could add another gear of speed and increase the threat of his shot.
Team Fit:
The Kraken continue to stockpile centers, but O`Brien`s potential ceiling was too high to pass on at No. 8. O`Brien possesses exceptional ice vision, elite playmaking ability, and will undoubtedly contribute to facilitating offense. While Matty Beniers and Shane Wright are known for their two-way games, O`Brien and Berkly Catton bring significant offensive driving capabilities.
The Kraken now have strong depth down the middle and can easily shift one or two players to the wing to round out their top six forwards. O`Brien needs a couple of years to mature physically and improve his shot to become a dual-threat offensive player. As is, he is more than capable of quarterbacking a power play and facilitating offense. There is no need for the Kraken to rush him, and allowing him time to further develop his elite playmaking skills could elevate his projection to a first-line forward capable of a point-per-game pace in the NHL.
9. Buffalo Sabres Select 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 good mobility who plays in all situations has scouts very excited. He is very difficult to bypass, routinely stopping attackers and ending plays. He is projected as a top-four, shutdown defenseman thanks to his excellent stick work, mobility, and transition defense. Mrtka utilizes his mobility to escape pressure, join the rush, and make quality passes to the middle of the ice.
Mrtka is expected to develop into a strong transition defender, a reliable penalty killer, and an efficient puck mover. He has a hard shot and could become more of an offensive threat if he improves at getting pucks through to the net. While he was a focal point in Seattle, there are legitimate concerns about his limited offensive production. His size and physicality provide him with the tools to develop into a minute-eating shutdown defender if his mobility continues to improve. His late birthday offers significant time for development to refine his skating, offensive playmaking, and physicality across the ice.
Team Fit:
A big, right-handed defenseman who plays a physical game, Mrtka is likely two or three years away from playing in the NHL. The Sabres have been noticeably lacking players who play a hard game, and Mrtka addresses that need. He is a mobile skater with good puck-moving ability and projects as a shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. Mrtka`s ability to defend in transition, force attackers to the outside, and kill plays is a desirable trait.
Mrtka`s late birthday means his development timeline is longer than some others, giving him time to improve his playmaking, choose his physical spots more effectively, and become a strong shutdown defender. While some speculated the Sabres might pick a forward, this selection raised some eyebrows, but the team clearly felt they needed a defenseman like Mrtka to complement Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power.
10. Anaheim Ducks Select 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` because he is a 6-5 center who skates with the speed and mobility expected from a smaller player, McQueen was a significant topic of discussion all season. He fits the profile of a prototypical modern power forward, blending soft skill with physicality. Elite right-handed centers are rare in the NHL, and McQueen`s size and willingness to physically dictate play add undeniable value. He possesses professional defensive habits that are translatable to the NHL and unique offensive upside that is still developing, partly due to time lost from a back injury during his draft season.
McQueen excels in the cycle game, creates offense on the rush, and uses his physical attributes to dominate possession and protect the puck. His projection as an elite top-line center is less certain due to the lost playing time from his back injury. Without the injury, he might have been discussed closer to the top of this draft class, as his combination of skating, skill, and physical gifts is rare and represents the kind of package executives dream of acquiring. He is a textbook 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 will be important for McQueen to develop his ability to protect himself, control the puck, and create offense against bigger players. If he develops without setbacks, he could become a strong two-way force in the NHL for years.
Team Fit:
The Ducks took a swing, hoping McQueen will be a home run pick at No. 10. Had it not been for injury, there`s a strong possibility McQueen would have been selected in the top five. McQueen moves with the speed and agility of a much smaller player. He can physically dictate play, drive offense and defense, and possesses unique offensive potential.
Anaheim already has high-end forwards, and McQueen potentially has the highest upside among them. He can dominate off the rush, on the cycle, and around the net front. The combination of McQueen`s physical gifts, skill, and skating makes him an easily projectable power forward who can change the momentum of games. If he can stay healthy, get stronger, and improve his puck-protection skills, the Ducks will have a special player. Patience will be crucial as McQueen needs a few years to develop his skill set, but if he reaches his ceiling, he is expected to be a dominant two-way force in the NHL.
11. Pittsburgh Penguins Select 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 threat. Following a 60-point rookie season in the WHL in 2023-24, he elevated his status to elite this season, finishing seventh in overall scoring and performing exceptionally well at even strength. Despite being undersized, Kindel combines pace, vision, and quality instincts, projecting as a middle-six winger with two-way capabilities. Kindel`s relentless motor compensates for any lack of top-end speed, allowing him to weave through traffic and execute give-and-go plays with ease. 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 teammates up creatively in dangerous areas with time and space, while also playing positionally sound defense.
Defensively and on the forecheck, Kindel leverages his intelligence, anticipation, and effort to win battles despite size disadvantages. He will need to refine and improve his skating posture and puck control while adding another gear of speed to 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 complementary piece.
Team Fit:
Kindel is an offensive facilitator and a brilliant playmaker, representing somewhat of a surprise selection at No. 11. He brings high-end hockey sense to identify opportunities and set up teammates in space. Although undersized, his blend of speed, playmaking, and relentless motor should translate well to the NHL.
Kindel`s ceiling is a second-line center who facilitates for his teammates and drives play. If he doesn`t reach that, he is likely to be a middle-six, secondary scorer who plays on the second power-play unit. The Penguins need intelligent players who skate well and drive offense, and they are clearly betting on Kindel`s upside. If he grows an inch or two as he develops over the next two years, the comparison to Brayden Point becomes relevant, given the similarities in skating, cerebral play, and driving play at that size.
12. Philadelphia Flyers Select 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 built on competitiveness, defensive reliability, and strong off-puck hockey IQ. He excels defensively, using his 6-4 frame to break up plays with physical engagement and smart stick positioning to intercept pucks. His hockey sense consistently places him in strong positions across all three zones, enabling him to create turnovers and execute quick passes for dangerous scoring chances resulting from those turnovers.
His offensive potential is significantly influenced by his skating, which is considered a concern. His stiff skating stride and demonstrated lack of flexibility at the combine may limit how much he can improve. Despite flashes of skill, he struggles to maneuver past defenders, and inconsistent puck handling under pressure often disrupts his playmaking. Nesbitt showed improvement throughout the season, leveraging his size offensively and initiating contact more consistently. If these improvements continue and he can enhance his skating stride, he confidently projects as a dependable middle-six center who can anchor a defensive line and support more skilled players higher in the lineup.
Team Fit:
The Flyers traded with their state rival, the Penguins, to select Nesbitt. He is a high-floor player whose potential ceiling is likely a third-line center. With his size, he has been described as a `hard to play against` center who plays a more traditional style, fitting well with the identity the Flyers aim to establish. There were numerous rumors this week that Nesbitt would be drafted early due to his positional value, combination of size, hard skill, and hockey sense. He is a very intelligent player who executes quality passes and plays a reliable game. His skating stride will ultimately determine his NHL ceiling. If he adds mobility and another gear, there is more offense to unlock, but the primary focus will be his checking ability. He needs two or three years to develop, but Nesbitt represented one of the most confident, low-volatility projections in the draft class as a future third-line center.
13. Detroit Red Wings Select 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 high-end instincts and playmaking ability. Before suffering a season-ending injury in March, Bear was one of the CHL`s most dangerous offensive players and a reliable 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 quality playmaker who uses various types of passes to create advantages in dangerous areas. His ability to manipulate defenders and create space for teammates while drawing coverage towards him should translate effectively to the NHL. He possesses good hands in tight spaces, making him a threat around the net, and is considered one of the best offensive facilitators in the draft class. In addition to his offensive talents, Bear`s defensive play makes him a quality two-way player. His stick positioning allows him to disrupt passes, and he is a tenacious forechecker who tracks back well 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 fully leverage his offensive skills in transition, but his instincts and execution of plays are already strong. Bear offers a good mix of soft and hard skills with projectable traits on both sides of the puck and is the type of player who should thrive in a matchup role while also contributing offensively.
Team Fit:
There is much to admire about Bear`s game, and there is belief that he has even more offensive potential to unlock. He possesses elite hockey sense that he utilizes to impact the game at both ends of the ice. His projection as a second-line, two-way player who scores close to 75 points per season should be very exciting for Red Wings fans.
His playmaking ability compensates for any lack of elite speed and should fit nicely with the Red Wings` forward group. He offers a unique blend of soft and hard skill that will make him reliable in all situations. He can win puck battles, get under opponents` skin, and make a difference across the entire ice. He will require two or three years to improve his skating and physically mature, but when he is ready, he should slide directly into the Wings` middle six as an impactful player.
14. Columbus Blue Jackets Select 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 undeveloped offensive potential. He possesses all the qualities of a top-four matchup defender. He defends the rush effectively, closes gaps, and directs play in transition, making him one of the best neutral-zone transition defenders in the class. Given the importance of transition defense in a matchup role, Smith has a real chance to become a player coaches rely on for heavy minutes against opponents` top players. His combination of skating, size, and poise, along with an offensive game that showed positive progression throughout the season, leads some to believe there is more offensive upside to come, and playing at Penn State next season should help with that development.
Standing 6-3, 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 required to be a high-end offensive contributor at the NHL level, but his reads are sufficient for him to be a strong transition player and join the rush as a support player. Smith`s future development will focus on leveraging his excellent mobility to prevent rush offense and becoming a more consistent offensive threat with better puck management. If Smith can drive play on both sides of the puck in transition and develop into a power-play threat, there is a real possibility he becomes a No. 2 defenseman in the NHL.
Team Fit:
The Blue Jackets made an emotional pick by having Meredith Gaudreau, wife of the late Johnny Gaudreau, select Smith. The Penn State commit possesses untapped offensive potential to complement his package of physicality, size, and skating. He is poised with the puck, makes quality breakout passes, and influences play. Defensively, he is excellent in transition, closing gaps and forcing players to the perimeter.
The Blue Jackets needed a defenseman, and getting Smith outside the top 12 represents good value. He should reliably play a matchup role on the second pairing and has the potential to reach a No. 2 role. Smith`s development will be centered on leveraging his mobility to improve his offensive game and become a more consistent threat with the puck in the offensive zone.
15. Vancouver Canucks Select 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 may lack explosive offensive numbers currently, but with development in his shooting mechanics, he could become a 60-point, two-way center. Scouts admire how consistently he moves his feet throughout his shifts, his drive to play through the middle of the ice, and his ability to create advantages through his skating and compete level. His ability to create space for teammates and move the puck to advantageous areas of the ice is highly translatable. He is proactive with initiating contact, drives the puck towards the middle, and is reliable on both sides of the puck in every zone. 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.
Team Fit:
The Canucks have a stated need for centers, as noted by President of Hockey Operations Jim Rutherford multiple times this offseason. While some speculated the Canucks might select Viktor Eklund, who was still available, 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 attack the middle of the ice, and the tenacity in his game. Cootes possesses 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 is a chance he becomes a second-line, play-driving center.
16. New York Islanders Select 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 chance of becoming a top-line contributor. Despite concerns about his size, Eklund`s playing style is highly translatable to the NHL. He plays much bigger than his measurements suggest, and there is room for him to add strength. Should he grow physically, as has happened with other prospects, Eklund`s projection becomes more confident as a potential 70-point producer with a high-end motor and excellent forechecking ability.
Eklund is outstanding in transition, attacking defenders with speed and fearlessness, driving towards the inside, and using his body positioning to win or protect pucks. His smaller size has necessitated learning how to protect the puck effectively with strong body positioning. If he develops a bigger, stronger frame, these skills will make him even more challenging to defend in the offensive zone. His off-puck play is mature and should quickly earn the trust of NHL coaches. Eklund has the potential to be a difference-maker in a second-line role, and his blend of hard-nosed play with soft skill should translate more seamlessly than many other players.
Team Fit:
With their second pick in the first round, the Islanders gained tremendous value by selecting Eklund. He plays a game that is bigger than his size, featuring excellent forechecking, hard skill, and puck-protection abilities. He uses above-average speed to attack the middle of the ice, generating offense in transition and below the circles. Eklund has a relentless motor and a competitive fire. This combination of hard-nosed play and soft skill should allow Eklund`s game to translate smoothly to the NHL. He is expected to fill out physically, and there is a real chance he becomes a difference-maker in the top six on the wing. The ceiling for Eklund is higher than any other player available at this spot, and he might be ready sooner than some anticipate. Islanders fans should be extremely excited about this pick.
17. New York Islanders Select 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 defender places him below some players with higher offensive upside. Aitcheson plays with significant truculence and aggression, while possessing an aura of confidence both with and without the puck. He has all the makings of being a complete menace who plays tough minutes as a No. 4 defender. Whether it`s a preseason game or the playoffs, Aitcheson maintains the same rough style and is unafraid to deliver hard hits on opponents. He needs to improve at picking his spots to avoid unnecessary penalties, but he is the type of player who forces opponents to be constantly aware of his presence on the ice. Scouts see him as a hard-nosed, two-way defender with significant bite who can shift momentum with his physical presence.
He requires development time, as his skating and playmaking are still quite raw, but his competitive attributes and development curve this season are very promising. Aitcheson`s offensive involvement increased as the season progressed, with him rotating effectively with teammates, driving towards high-danger areas, and becoming more dangerous with open ice. He is likely two or three years away from being NHL-ready. However, when he arrives, he is exactly the type of defenseman every coach and GM desires on their team.
Team Fit:
With their third selection of the first round, the Islanders added significant physicality and aggression in Aitcheson. As one of the meanest, most aggressive defensemen in the draft, Aitcheson is expected to be a nightmare for opponents to play against. He is very raw but possesses undeveloped offensive potential. His competitive attributes give Aitcheson a throwback playing style that is likely to make him a fan favorite on the island. He can change the momentum of a game with a big hit, but he also demonstrated the ability to contribute offensively as the season went on. His skating and playmaking are the biggest areas for development, but even if he doesn`t score more than 30 points at the NHL level, Aitcheson is the type of defenseman teams win many games with. He makes life difficult for opponents, defends his teammates, and sacrifices himself.
