The first round of the NHL Entry Draft is scheduled for Friday evening in Los Angeles. This year marks a change, as team personnel will not be gathered in a single centralized location, altering the traditional draft floor interactions. However, the players themselves will be in attendance, promising interesting visual moments.
Beyond the highly anticipated top two prospects, Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa, this year`s draft class features considerable uncertainty. There is no clear hierarchy after the top two players, and it`s widely expected that we will see significant movement of draft picks, potentially as early as the first round. Given the variability across draft boards, teams may seek to trade up or down depending on player availability. Additionally, teams holding multiple first-round selections could make noteworthy or unexpected choices.
For this final mock draft, we will assume teams retain their current draft positions, though potential trade scenarios and their likely impact on selections are mentioned. For example, teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets, Utah Mammoth, Boston Bruins, and Vancouver Canucks are candidates to move their first-round picks for immediate NHL roster upgrades, and these possibilities are taken into account.
Crucially, a mock draft is not about identifying the `best` player available but rather predicting which player a team is most likely to select based on their organizational philosophy, needs, and scouting preferences. This exercise focuses on `who is most probable to be picked if the pick isn`t traded,` rather than `who I would pick as a GM.`
With that context established, here is the final projection for the first 32 selections:
1. New York Islanders – Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)
This selection appears straightforward and doesn`t require overthinking. While the narrative around James Hagens, a Long Island native and Islanders fan, is compelling and will be discussed later, Schaefer stands out as the indisputably best player in this draft class.
Many scouts view Schaefer as a potential franchise cornerstone defenseman, capable of driving play effectively at both ends of the ice. The Islanders face a challenging situation on defense with Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov requiring new contracts, both of whom are expected to command significant salaries and have been subjects of trade rumors. In light of this, the Islanders likely see Schaefer as their future top defenseman. Should they retain Dobson, Schaefer`s arrival could allow the veteran to transition into a less demanding role, easing his workload.
Schaefer missed most of his draft year due to injury and would likely benefit from a year of development in the NCAA. However, this scenario seems improbable. Even without it, the Islanders can reasonably expect him to step into a significant role in their lineup as a rookie. It would not be surprising to see Schaefer quarterbacking the power play, playing top-four minutes, and becoming a fixture on the Islanders` defense core very early in the upcoming season.
2. San Jose Sharks – Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)
There is some speculation surrounding the Sharks heading into draft weekend. While they have a clear need on defense and are reportedly interested in center Anton Frondell, passing on a talent like Misa for any reason would be ill-advised. Although a gap exists between Schaefer and Misa, the difference between Misa and the subsequent tier of prospects is even more significant.
Adding a dynamic offensive threat with strong two-way capabilities to a young roster that already includes Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith is a highly exciting prospect. Misa is versatile, capable of playing center or wing, but his two-way game makes him particularly valuable down the middle, potentially giving the Sharks a formidable one-two punch for years to come. A top-six forward group featuring Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Misa – all aged 22 or younger – would establish a potent attack with reliable two-way drivers at center for the foreseeable future.
Misa possesses explosive scoring ability, excellent speed, and elite hockey sense, combined with a relentless effort level. It`s plausible that he could step into the lineup this season and make an impact similar to Celebrini`s rookie performance in 2024-25, thanks to his comprehensive skillset and professional habits across the ice.
3. Chicago Blackhawks – Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
This is where the draft order begins to become more unpredictable. It is rumored that Chicago might trade this pick, but if they keep it, Frondell or Porter Martone appear to be the most probable selections. While Hagens would be the best available player, it seems Chicago is leaning towards a larger player to complement Connor Bedard.
In this scenario, Chicago hopes Frondell can slide into the lineup behind Bedard, contributing two-way value, utilizing his elite shot release, and finding open areas to get his shots off. Frondell would likely benefit from another season of development outside the NHL before transitioning to become a more complete play driver.
When he is ready, the Blackhawks could place Frondell across from Bedard on the power play, creating two threats with elite shot releases on the flanks. Ideally, Frondell would anchor the second line as a powerful two-way center, providing Chicago with a strong one-two punch for many years.
4. Utah Mammoth – Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
There`s a significant chance Utah will trade this pick rather than make a selection. If they do trade it, the acquiring team would likely select Hagens. However, Utah has expressed a preference for players with `hard skill,` a description that fits both Caleb Desnoyers and Brady Martin. Both are legitimate options for the Mammoth, who seek to add physicality to a top six featuring Clayton Keller, Logan Cooley, and Dylan Guenther.
It is well known that Martin is high on Utah`s list, a status solidified by his impressive performance during meetings with Mammoth staff at the scouting combine. Martin, known as a `farm boy,` has garnered interest from several teams, including the Flyers and Bruins. Some analysts believe he could develop into a player similar to Sam Bennett, whose regular-season scoring might be modest, but who becomes a formidable presence in the playoffs. Utah feels they need more toughness at the top of their lineup, and among the players available in this range, Martin brings the most intensity.
5. Nashville Predators – Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)
Nashville has scouted Martone more extensively than any other team, with high-level management observing him play on multiple occasions. Martone is considered to have some of the best hockey sense and vision in the draft class, and he is also among the top prospects for puck skill. Combined with an elite shot, his playmaking abilities create a 6-foot-3 forward possessing both physical and finesse skills, with a remarkably high potential ceiling.
While he may not reach the level of Mikko Rantanen, Rantanen is identified as his second-closest comparable in the model used, alongside Cole Caufield – noted for NHL potential, not size. If he doesn`t take Martone, Trotz is known for valuing upside and skill. If he truly leans into that philosophy, Hagens seems like the player. However, there`s a subtle possibility that Nashville could acquire an NHL player and additional assets from the Islanders in exchange for this pick if Hagens is still available.
Predators GM Barry Trotz would likely task Martone with enhancing his physical game to become a more imposing presence, developing into a dual-threat forward who is challenging for opponents to handle.
6. Philadelphia Flyers – James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)
The Flyers have a significant need for centers, and if Hagens is available at the sixth spot, they should follow a similar strategy to their selection of Matvei Michkov – taking a highly talented player who unexpectedly falls to them. The prospect of adding both Michkov and Hagens to their top forward group without drafting within the top five in those respective years would be immensely beneficial to the organization.
Hagens would immediately become the Flyers` top center prospect. The team is not under pressure to rush his development through college, given that Sean Couturier, Noah Cates, and recently acquired Trevor Zegras are already on the NHL roster. When he is ready, Hagens can step in to provide a much-needed offensive spark for the Flyers. His speed, puck handling ability, and exceptional playmaking skills would complement Michkov effectively, especially if he recovers his play-driving ability after another season at Boston College. The refined aspects of his game will help him earn the coach`s trust and establish himself as a core piece of the Flyers` offense for years ahead.
7. Boston Bruins – Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)
This is another pick that could potentially be traded. However, if the Bruins make this selection, Desnoyers would be an ideal fit for the organization. A French-Canadian two-way center known for his excellent defensive ability, clutch performance, and leadership qualities, he embodies traits that should resonate strongly with Bruins fans.
Desnoyers is a serial winner who performs at his best when the stakes are highest. He excels in challenging areas of the ice, is a skillful playmaker, and possesses high-level hockey sense. His defensive game is already NHL-caliber, and if he can improve his speed, the Bruins will have a legitimate offensive threat capable of handling tough defensive assignments in crucial situations.
8. Seattle Kraken – Jake O`Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)
There is a recognized group of six prospects considered the next tier after Schaefer and Misa, and Seattle will likely select whomever is available from this group. However, the Kraken have a need for a defenseman, and they might consider trading down a few spots into the range where Radim Mrtka and Jackson Smith are projected.
If they remain at pick No. 8, O`Brien appears to be the likely choice, unless they opt for Roger McQueen. Seattle boasts significant depth at center with young players like Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Berkly Catton, all 22 or younger. O`Brien is a high-end talent who might allow the Kraken to shift Catton to wing in the top six.
O`Brien offers more high-end playmaking ability compared to Wright and Beniers. He will have time to physically mature and increase his speed to reach his potential as a playmaking top-six center. He is expected to become a significant playmaking force, quarterbacking the power play and creating scoring opportunities for his wingers.
9. Buffalo Sabres – Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)
The Sabres possess a decent prospect pool, but the organization particularly requires high-end center and right-handed defensive prospects. Both Mrtka and McQueen should be available at this pick, but it seems the large defenseman is their preference.
The 6-6, right-handed defenseman demonstrates promising mobility and strong transition defense, making him a potentially perfect partner for Rasmus Dahlin or Owen Power. Selecting Mrtka provides the Sabres with another quality defenseman exhibiting potential shutdown abilities as the organization strives to end the NHL`s longest playoff drought.
10. Anaheim Ducks – Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)
The Ducks could realistically trade this pick for immediate NHL help, as GM Pat Verbeek has been 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 seem to have thoroughly investigated his back injury. If the Ducks are confident the injury will not pose future issues, adding a powerful 6-5 center with the potential to be a dominant two-way force is a straightforward decision. The only limitation on McQueen`s potential is his physical durability. If he remains healthy, he could develop into one of the best players from this draft class, a risk well worth taking for the Ducks.
11. Pittsburgh Penguins – Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)
Holding two consecutive first-round picks, the Penguins might attempt to trade up to secure an elite prospect; their combined pick value is close to that of the third overall pick, making a trade-up a plausible option. Failing that, the Penguins have an excellent opportunity to significantly bolster their prospect pipeline with two key players.
If McQueen were available, they would likely consider him strongly. However, adding Smith to their defensive depth would be a smart move for the Penguins, who currently have Owen Pickering and Harrison Brunicke as notable defensive prospects. Smith is big, physical, and possesses genuine offensive potential. He should be capable of playing a matchup role and generating offense from the blue line. He demonstrates 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)
The Penguins secure another player with top-10 talent in Eklund at this spot. Carter Bear and Lynden Lakovic are also potential options here, both possessing outstanding offensive skills.
Eklund plays a style that translates well to the NHL and has the potential to reach 70-plus points in a top-line role. His strong forechecking, willingness to engage physically, fearlessness in driving to the net-front area, and two-way play provide him with the tools to become a player similar to Seth Jarvis.
He is likely to be NHL-ready relatively soon, which is an important factor for a team with as many veterans as the Penguins. Having Eklund learn from the future Hall of Famers in the later stages of their careers could provide a lasting developmental impact that helps Eklund reach his potential as a first-line offensive engine.
13. Detroit Red Wings – Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)
The Red Wings have a specific player type they favor, and fortunately, several prospects in their draft range fit this mold: Bear, Eklund, and Justin Carbonneau. At least two, if not all three, could be available at this position.
Bear`s elite instincts and playmaking abilities are attractive to many teams, including Detroit. Combined with one of the draft class`s best competitive drives, Bear exhibits all the characteristics of a play-driving winger with reliable two-way abilities, comparable to Zach Hyman.
The Red Wings have quality young centers, and Bear`s combination of playmaking and net-front finishing skills could see him excel as a power-play contributor and offensive facilitator. He would be an excellent fit for the Red Wings as a projected top-six forward.
14. Columbus Blue Jackets – Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)
There`s a distinct possibility that Columbus trades this pick for immediate roster assistance. However, if they do not, this spot feels like the latest Aitcheson would be selected, given the Blue Jackets` need to add defensive prospects.
Although Logan Hensler is a likely consideration here – and the team holds him in high regard – there are only a few scenarios in which Aitcheson might still be available for the Jackets` second pick at No. 20. Therefore, selecting him here makes sense. With Aitcheson, the Blue Jackets acquire a raw defenseman with the potential to develop into a formidable and challenging player to compete against, while also providing two-way value. As one of the less polished prospects, Aitcheson will require time to develop, but his skillset offers reason to believe he can become a middle-pair defenseman who is difficult to play against, particularly in the postseason.
15. Vancouver Canucks – Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)
It is perhaps the least-kept secret in the hockey world that Vancouver is targeting a center. The Canucks had dinner with Cootes at the combine, have scouted him extensively throughout the season, and were reportedly very impressed with his demeanor during the combine process. Jack Nesbitt could also be a possibility here, as the Canucks favor centers with size, but Cootes and Cole Reschny offer higher potential ceilings.
Cootes is projected to become a middle-six center with dependable two-way capabilities, excellent instincts away from the puck, and an ability to produce 55 to 65 points annually. If Aitcheson is still available, they might find it difficult to pass on the large, imposing defenseman.
16. Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames) – Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)
The Canadiens possess a dynamic offensive presence on their blue line in Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson, and Reid could be an ideal defensive partner for him. Montreal management heavily scouted Reid this season, leading many to believe he will be targeted with one of the team`s two first-round selections. While the Canadiens are another team that could consider Aitcheson, Reid`s ability to drive play through his excellent skating and sound decision-making is difficult to overlook.
He possesses the tools to develop into a solid top-four defenseman and does not need to push his offense beyond his capabilities to provide significant value. He is considered less risky than some other available defensemen, offering predictable offensive contributions and excellent mobility that enhances his value in transition.
17. Montreal Canadiens – Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
I personally rank Carbonneau higher than many others due to my belief in his substantial potential as a power forward. With Juraj Slafkovsky already part of the team, the Canadiens require additional size to complement Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Ivan Demidov.
Carbonneau has the potential to develop into a dual-threat forward in a top-six role, exhibiting high-end creativity. If all elements align and his decision-making improves, Carbonneau could become 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 selection for the local team.
18. Calgary Flames (from New Jersey Devils) – Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)
Calgary needs to add depth at center to its prospect pool, and Reschny represents good value in this range. He is a skilled playmaker who facilitates offense and possesses the best hockey sense among the centers available in this part of the draft. He lacks size and will need to play effectively in congested areas of the ice to reach his potential as a second-line center, but his offensive toolkit is present.
The nuances of his game are nearly NHL-ready, demonstrating good success in puck battles, effective connective play, and strong forechecking. There is potential for him to develop into a dual-threat player, capable of both playmaking and shooting, a combination the Flames value.
19. St. Louis Blues – Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)
The Blues have utilized a significant portion of their high draft capital on defensemen, and the pressing need for centers in their pipeline cannot be overlooked.
Nesbitt has received considerable positive attention from executives since the scouting combine and could move into the top 20. The large center is likely to reach his ceiling as a third-line, two-way checking forward but could see increased offensive potential if he improves his speed. At 6-4, he brings size, strength, physicality, and the ability to shut down opponents. These traits are appealing to many teams, including the Blues.
20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota Wild) – Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)
It is plausible that the Blue Jackets will select another defenseman with their second first-round pick, and it seems more likely than not. Lynden Lakovic would be a strong consideration if available, but Hensler is a player highly valued by Columbus management.
He is an effective defender in the neutral zone and during transitions due to his excellent mobility, which allows him to proactively challenge opponents and maintain a tight gap. The right-shot defenseman could develop into a quality No. 2 or 3 defenseman if he reaches his full potential and continues to improve his offensive game.
21. Ottawa Senators – Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw (WHL)
Lakovic makes a lot of sense for the Senators. Management appears to highly regard the large, dual-threat winger who possesses undeveloped physical potential. He is intelligent, moves very well for his 6-4 frame, and should be able to build chemistry in the top six, regardless of which center he plays with.
If Lakovic can enhance his physicality, the Senators would gain a legitimate dual-threat scorer with a power game who should become a significant contributor.
22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado Avalanche) – Daniil Prokhorov, F, St. Petersburg (MHL)
The momentum for Prokhorov is building heading into Friday night`s first round, with a consensus among teams that they appreciate his style of play and expect him to be selected in the early 20s. Teams with multiple first-round selections often take risks with their later picks, and Prokhorov certainly represents one such gamble.
The Flyers are likely to take a significant swing with at least one of their first-rounders, and a large, intensely physical player with raw offensive capabilities that could translate into a power forward is precisely the kind of talent that a coach like Rick Tocchet would be very eager to develop.
23. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning) – Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
Considering their draft positions at fifth and 23rd overall, it is highly probable the Predators will select a forward with the No. 5 pick, assuming they don`t trade it. However, given the limited depth of defensemen in their pipeline, Boumedienne represents a logical choice here.
Trotz is inclined to select players with high potential, and Boumedienne possesses the most upside among the defensemen available in this range. He offers genuine offensive potential, is an effective passer in breakouts, and is capable of playing a two-way transition game on a second defensive pair. If Logan Hensler were still available, he would be a major consideration, and Blake Fiddler is likely also in the discussion, although Boumedienne and potentially Hensler are seen as the higher-upside options.
24. Los Angeles Kings – Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)
As previously noted, the Kings have very little defensive depth in their prospect system. Fortunately for them, a 6-5 right-handed defenseman with a hockey background is available for selection in this scenario.
Fiddler is a fluid skater who effectively shuts down plays in transition. He demonstrates above-average ability in retrieving pucks and is projected to be a reliable shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. This pick falls within the appropriate range for Fiddler, and he aligns perfectly with the Kings` needs. He will have time to develop into the large, shutdown defenseman the Kings will rely on in future years.
25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs) – Vaclav Nestrasil, F, Muskegon (USHL)
Increasingly, reports indicate that teams highly value Nestrasil`s potential as a skilled power forward. At 6-5, he adds much-needed size to the Blackhawks` prospect pool without compromising on potential.
He is a longer-term development project, but the combination of passing, hockey sense, and playmaking is appealing. His potential as a power forward is tantalizingly high, particularly because he has significant room to fill out his frame. If he learns to effectively utilize his physicality, he could become a space-creating winger capable of playing in the top six as a dual-threat player with a quality shot release. The upside here is worth the gamble for a Chicago team lacking a large power forward in their prospect system.
26. Nashville Predators (from Vegas Golden Knights, via SJ) – Malcolm Spence, F, Erie (OHL)
Once considered a top-10 prospect, Spence would be a valuable addition to the Predators` prospect pool. They might consider selecting goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen here, but there is a possibility he could still be available when they pick again at No. 35.
Spence offers a strong blend of speed, physicality, and relentless two-way play. He is the type of player who will actively pursue pucks, create space, forecheck effectively to force turnovers, and play in crucial situations. Spence has more offensive potential to unlock, and there is a real chance he could develop into a gritty, second-line winger capable of handling tough defensive assignments. The Predators currently lack a prospect with Spence`s profile, and he would represent good value if he can return to the form he showed last year.
27. Washington Capitals – Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)
The Capitals tend to favor a specific player type and are known for taking chances in the draft. Their prospect pool significantly needs centers. While Milton Gastrin is a safer projection, acquiring Kindel – who recorded 99 points in the WHL this season – at No. 27 represents excellent value.
Many project Kindel to play wing at the NHL level, but he possesses the hockey sense, playmaking ability, and speed to potentially play center in the NHL. Kindel`s draft-year profile is very similar to Brayden Point`s. While Kindel may not necessarily develop into Brayden Point, the possibility makes him well worth the selection here.
28. Winnipeg Jets – Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)
The Jets` prospect pool is notably thin on defense. Their scouts have spent considerable time watching the London Knights, making Brzustewicz a familiar player to them.
As the season progressed, Brzustewicz demonstrated offensive instincts through his puck movement and ability to join the rush. There is significant potential for offensive growth, and he is expected to be London`s primary defenseman next season. The right-shot defenseman provides the Jets with a projected transition defender possessing good puck-moving and skating abilities who should comfortably fit on the second defensive pair in the future.
29. Carolina Hurricanes – Ryker Lee, F, Madison (USHL)
The Hurricanes have a distinct drafting profile, often targeting prospects with high-end skill and significant potential. It seems probable they will select either Ryker Lee or Cullen Potter here.
Lee`s statistical profile is slightly stronger, and he boasts elite playmaking skills, puck handling ability, a powerful shot, and keen offensive instincts. His knack for identifying open areas and unleashing a shot or making a skillful play should translate to the NHL. His skating requires improvement to fully capitalize on these talents, but given that skating is often the most coachable trait, Lee`s skill package could make him a home run pick.
30. San Jose Sharks (from Dallas Stars) – Cullen Potter, F, Arizona State (NCAA)
If Potter is still available at this spot, adding the fastest skater in the draft would be excellent value for the Sharks.
While they would likely prefer to draft a defenseman, Potter is too valuable an asset for a rebuilding team to pass up. His promising development at the NCAA level could see him become another piece of a highly skilled top six in San Jose. There is room for further growth for Potter, and given his development in two-way play, the speedy forward with an excellent shot release provides the young Sharks team with another offensive player who has projected defensive qualities.
31. Philadelphia Flyers (from Edmonton Oilers) – Bill Zonnon, F, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Adding a forward who performed well in the playoffs, possesses two-way ability, and plays a relentless style feels like a quintessential Philadelphia Flyers move.
Zonnon exhibits some of the best detailed play in the draft, featuring excellent forechecking, strong defensive instincts, and a willingness to engage in tough areas to win battles. He plays one of the more translatable games among the remaining players and consistently gives maximum effort. The Flyers will need players who can fill these roles as they aim to become future contenders, and Zonnon possesses projectable offensive playmaking traits. If he can improve his skating through refining his stride mechanics, there is a clear path for him to become a fan favorite in the middle six.
32. Calgary Flames (from Florida Panthers) – Milton Gastrin, F, MoDo (J20 Nationell)
If Calgary selects Reschny with their first pick, it is likely they will choose another center with this selection. Gastrin has a relatively safe projection as a bottom-six center. He is a better play driver than he is often given credit for and has demonstrated the ability to compete effectively against highly skilled opponents. He is a high-floor prospect who showed flashes of more offensive capability than previously anticipated this season. At a minimum, his instincts and supportive play with the puck should allow him to become a dependable player on a checking line that a coach trusts in key situations.
