Elite Prospects' 2025 NHL Mock Draft 2.0 - Top 64
LOS ANGELES, California – Welcome to the 2025 NHL Draft, where uncertainty reigns supreme the moment after Matthew Schaefer comes off the board at No. 1.
Beyond that, it’s a guessing game cloaked in misdirection, radio silence, and ever-shifting preferences. The decentralized draft setup here in Los Angeles isn’t helping matters either as it’s giving off a strange energy that mirrors a class that’s felt unpredictable from day one.
Late surges, concerning medical histories, inconsistent views throughout the season, and organizational mismatches. It’s all led to one of the most fluid and volatile classes in recent memory.
The entire top 10 feels like its going to end up in a blender early. Brady Martin is surging. James Hagens, once considered a consensus top-three guy, is now a wild card inside the top 10. Porter Martone has fans and skeptics in equal measure. Depending on which team you ask, he’s either a sure-thing power winger or a slip candidate.
And all of it’s happening with teams openly exploring ways to jump the line, slide back, or get out entirely. Add in a tense backdrop of recent protest activity around the LA Live campus, and you’ve got a draft weekend that feels anything but stable.
With all that in mind, here's a look at how the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft could play out based on current intel and team needs.
1. Matthew Schaefer | LD | Erie (OHL) | New York Islanders
The Islanders were very fortunate to jump 10 spots and land in the pole position. They keep this simple and select the best player available. Schaefer, as his good friend Malcolm Spence said, “has feet of gold.” Despite playing just 17 regular-season games, he has the highest pure upside in the class and should develop into a true No. 1 defenseman. The question is, does he play in the NHL, the OHL, or the NCAA next season?
2. Anton Frondell | C/LW | Djurgården (HockeyAllsvenskan) | San Jose Sharks
Our first little surprise of the day comes early with Anton Frondell landing in San Jose. A powerful, two-way forward with pro frame and poise, Frondell impressed against top-tier competition in Sweden, despite being one of the youngest players in the class. His maturity, versatility, and potential as a matchup-driving pivot make him a long-term fit in San Jose’s rebuild, even if he leaves some pure offensive upside on the board.
Mike Grier has done an impeccable job keeping us all guessing ahead of this pick. This feels like a jump ball for Frondell or Misa. But in this world, it's the big Swede.
3. Michael Misa | C | Saginaw (OHL) | Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks slip back from two to three in the lottery but still land the top forward on their board. Michael Misa is a true first line talent who will have the luxury of secondary matchups as the second half of a formidable 1-2 centre punch behind Connor Bedard. Speed, size, duel-threat offensive tools.. Misa checks nearly every box. The Hawks would be thrilled with this result.
4. Caleb Desnoyers | C | Moncton (QMJHL) | Utah Mammoth
Jumping 10 spots thanks to a fortunate set of ping-pong ball bounces, the Utah Mammoth suddenly found themselves with a golden opportunity to add a true impact piece. They use it to select Caleb Desnoyers. Desnoyers has collected an impressive list of accomplishments over the past 18 months. He won a Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, captured gold at both the U17 and U18 World Championships, and was named MVP of the QMJHL playoffs after leading his team to a league title. The Mammoth are thrilled to land a sizeable, cerebral, skilled pivot with two-way upside and a strong track record of rising to the occasion.
5. Porter Martone | RW | Brampton (OHL) | Nashville Predators
Porter Martone represents one of the most unique players in the draft. The top winger is a gifted playmaker with a sniper’s release and high-end offensive IQ all wrapped in a power forward’s frame. He isn’t a true banger, but could turn into one. Massive upside here for Nashville who could use a bit of everything in their pipeline.
6. Brady Martin | C | Soo (OHL) | Philadelphia Flyers
The Brady Martin hype train left the station and never really slowed down. No. 6 feels like the floor to where he could slide to. The result is that the Flyers are thrilled to select the powerful, straight-ahead center with smash-mouth DNA and enough skill to confidently project to a top six future. Teams all around the top 10 view him as a future playoff star, but it’s Philly who lands him.
7. Jake O’Brien | C | Brantford (OHL) | Boston Bruins
At No. 7, the Bruins land one of the highest upside players in the draft class. No player in the 2025 group is as creative as Jake O’Brien. Few project to be as dynamic a playmaker as him either. The 6-foot-2 pivot owns some of the most explosive and projectable play-creation skills in the draft. He also has a lot of developmental runway as he matures physically and starts to use his shot more.
8. Radim Mrtka | RD | Seattle (WHL) | Seattle Kraken
The Kraken have been building an impressive stable of forward prospects over the last few years. Most on the slighter side. Now they add a behemoth to the right side of their blueline. Radim Mrtka brings shutdown potential so massive it nearly eclipses his towering frame. The 6-foot-6 Czech blueliner transitioned to the WHL and immediately became a workhorse for Seattle, regularly logging 30 minutes a night. While his mechanics remain a work in progress, the raw tools point to a potential two-way anchor capable of soaking up tough minutes. The Kraken take the kid playing just down the road.
9. James Hagens | C | Boston College (NCAA) | Buffalo Sabres
The slide mercifully ends at No. 9 for James Hagens. Once the clear favourite to go first overall, the speedy pivot will have an extra large chip on his shoulder to prove eight teams wrong. Another year at Boston College is expected and then he’ll be ready to step into the league. More centre depth for the Sabres, but they couldn’t pass up the value here.
10. Kashawn Aitcheson | LD | Barrie (OHL) | Anaheim Ducks
Kashawn Aitcheson isn’t the biggest defender. He didn’t record the most points. He doesn’t even play the right side. But he’s the second blueliner off the board in this world and injects the kind of smash-mouth brand of hockey that every team would love to add. As one NHL executive shared, "He has this incredible belief in himself and his game. You love that type of confidence.” At Anaheim's camp this year, he can learn how to channel his physicality into a professional weapon from guys like Trouba and Gudas.
11. Roger McQueen | C | Brandon (WHL) | Pittsburgh Penguins
With their first of back-to-back picks, the Penguins fill a rare organizational gap by selecting Roger McQueen. The towering centre has a rare combination of size and skill that makes him a unique asset. The concerns around his injury history began to amplify in the days leading up to the draft, and that's precisely why he's still on the board at 11. If he hits, McQueen might just carry the highest ceiling in the entire draft class.
12. Jackson Smith | LD | Tri-City (WHL) | Pittsburgh Penguins (via NYR)
One of the more toolsy defenders in the class, Jackson Smith brings an enticing blend of size, mobility, and raw upside. At 6-foot-3, he skates extremely well for his frame, owns a heavy shot, and shows legitimate instincts in transition. He impressed in flashes with Tri-City this season, showcasing the kind of physical and puck-moving toolkit that NHL teams covet.
13. Victor Eklund | RW | Djurgården (HockeyAllsvenskan) | Detroit Red Wings
Everyone is looking for the next Brad Marchand. The slightly undersized, physically engaging, high-skilled forward. The success stories are few, the failures litter the draft floor of years gone by. But Victor Eklund might just be the one. He’s one of the more NHL-ready players in the crop, a true competitor and has enough skill to realize a top-six future. Word started to percolate around Detroit and Eklund in the days leading up to the draft. They love their Swedes and they get their guy here.
14. Carter Bear | C | Everett (WHL) | Columbus Blue Jackets
A partially lacerated achilles prematurely ended Carter Bear’s season. But not before he made quite the impression. A hard-skill pivot with pure goal-scoring ability, Bear makes up for his average size with a threatening and dynamic style of play. Columbus boasts a highly-efficient drafting profile in recent years, with a foundation in analytics. This fits right in their wheelhouse.
15. Lynden Lakovic | LW/RW | Moose Jaw (WHL) | Vancouver Canucks
Lynden Lakovic’s raw numbers don’t immediately scream top-15 pick. But his 58 points in 47 games take on greater significance when viewed in the context of a rebuilding Moose Jaw squad, fresh off a WHL championship run. With much of the offensive burden falling on his shoulders, the lanky winger had to manufacture chances on his own. He remains one of the highest-upside scorers in the 2025 draft class.
16. Justin Carbonneau | RW | Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL) | Montreal Canadiens (via Calgary Flames)
One of, if not the, best puck handlers in the class, Justin Carbonneau has more than just highlight reel handles and a Quebec birth certificate. He plays a robust game that mirrors the hard skill package teams are constantly searching for. Slot him next to an exciting young centre and watch them make magic.
17. Logan Hensler | RHD | Wisconsin (NCAA) | Montreal Canadiens
In the second half of the back-to-back picks, the Habs go to the NCAA. Logan Hensler adds size, poise, pro habits, and right shot to the Habs' pipeline. The right-shot defender plays a calm, calculated game, with his best quality being the ability to kill plays early and move pucks efficiently. His freshman season at Wisconsin highlighted his ability to handle pace and make quick decisions under pressure. While not flashy, Hensler projects as a reliable middle-pairing option who can log hard minutes and anchor a penalty kill.
18. Ben Kindel | C | Calgary (WHL) | Calgary Flames (via New Jersey Devils)
The top-scoring WHL draft-eligible, Benjamin Kindel, owns the type of statistical profile that NHL teams covet. His quick, darting, and elusive style suits a top-line centre role in junior hockey, but his stature may necessitate a shift to the wing at the professional level. That won’t diminish his impact too much. The Flames, who share a building with Kindel’s Hitmen, had no shortage of live looks before making this pick.
19. Malcolm Spence | LW | Erie (OHL) | St. Louis Blues
Malcolm Spence has a more limited offensive ceiling than some left on the board, but brings a sturdy, two-way approach with leadership and plus-speed. He’ll likely see time with Canadiens’ prospect Michael Hage at Michigan next year, and that could be a fun duo in the NHL in a few years, too.
20. Cole Reschny | C | Columbus Blue Jackets (via Minnesota Wild)
Cole Reschny exploded in the second half of the season, showcasing the elite vision and passing touch that make him one of the top playmakers in the class. His ability to create under pressure, spot developing lanes, and deliver precise feeds stood out as Victoria leaned on him completely down the stretch and through the playoffs. For Columbus he brings high-end offensive instincts and creativity, adding a dynamic layer to their forward group with the potential to become a top-six piece.
21. Braeden Cootes | C | Seattle (WHL) | Ottawa Senators
While Braeden Cootes' point totals may not jump off the page, his game is built on a foundation that NHL teams desire. Skating, intelligence, and a never-ending supply of effort. He’s an above-average mover who plays with purpose and can be a factor in all three zones. His hockey IQ allows him to stay a step ahead of the play, whether he's killing penalties, supporting the puck defensively, or slipping into soft ice in the offensive end. Add in a tireless work ethic, and you have a player who can impact the game in a variety of ways. He’s effective, reliable, and full of long-term value.
22. Blake Fiddler | RHD | Edmonton (WHL) | Philadelphia Flyers (via Colorado Avalanche)
Blake Fiddler feels like a classic Flyers pick. He’s big, mobile, and plays with some bite. The right-shot defender has good mobility and very real stopping potential at the next level. There is still a good amount of rawness to his game, but the tools are there. He’s starting to show more confidence moving the puck and using his shot, and with time, he could develop into a dependable top-four blueliner who can log hard minutes and chip in offensively.
23. Cameron Reid | LHD | Kitchener (OHL) | Nashville Predators (via Tampa Bay Lightning)
With their second of three first-round picks, the Preds take puck-moving, offensive defender Cameron Reid. Reid isn’t the most dynamic player, nor the largest, but he maximizes his game through intelligence and plus-skills. He’ll need to refine his game in the mould of Devon Toews to tap his ultimate upside, but he has a strong base to begin with.
24. Mason West | C | Edina High (USHS-MN) Los Angeles Kings
The ‘oohs and ahhs’ reign down as the host LA Kings give their crowd something to talk about by selecting towering pivot Mason West. The 6-foot-6 high-schooler was teetering between football and hockey scholarships but chose hockey and will play for Michigan State after a full season in the USHL. He’s a project, but a huge one with a unique upside.
25. Jack Nesbitt | C | Windsor (OHL) | Chicago Blackhawks (via Toronto Maple Leafs)
Jack Nesbitt’s draft stock has climbed steadily throughout the season, but scouts remain divided on just how high his ceiling can reach. What’s not in question is the appeal of his physical toolkit. At 6-foot-3 and nearly 200 pounds, Nesbitt brings a commanding presence down the middle, thriving in board battles and driving the net with purpose. While his U18s left something to be desired, his pro-style habits, defensive responsibility, and ability to play through contact make him an intriguing long-term piece. If his offensive game continues to evolve, this could look like a strong value pick for the Blackhawks.
26. Pyotr Andreyanov | G | Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL) | Nashville Predators (via Vegas Golden Knights)
The Predators shock the world and take another Russian netminder in the first round. The top-ranked European goaltender is said to have wowed scouts at the Gold Star Showcase in Florida earlier this month. Convincing clubs he’s the most NHL-ready option available. It's a big swing, but perhaps more representative of the depth drop off at this level of the draft.
27. Shane Vansaghi | RW | Michigan State (NCAA) | Washington Capitals
If there’s one team that understands the value of a skillful power forward, it's the Washington Capitals. Tom Wilson’s impact has been immeasurable, and they’re hoping they’re selecting his successor in Shane Vansaghi. The Michigan State winger cosplays as a freight train on the forecheck and flashes high-level skill plays at times. The offensive upside is more limited, but the uniqueness is tempting.
28. Joshua Ravensbergen | G | Prince George (WHL) | London (OHL) | Winnipeg Jets
After an incredible draft-minus-one season, 2024-25 was more difficult for Joshua Ravensbergen. The 6-foot-5 stopper faced more breakaways than any reasonable human should face. His numbers dipped, but he still managed to show his mental fortitude, exceptional calmness in net, and lateral athleticism. He could be worth the wait.
29. Henry Brzustewicz | RHD | London (OHL) Carolina Hurricanes
Smooth-skating, right-shot defensemen with decent size and projectable defensive ability don’t tend to slip far on draft day. Henry Brzustewicz has a more projectable set of tools than many selected before him. A lack of standout traits makes him a non-flashy pick, but one who has a strong likelihood of tangible NHL minutes.
30. Max Psenicka | RD | San Jose Sharks (via Dallas Stars)
The Sharks missed out on Schaefer at the top of the draft, but land a potential impact blueliner late on Day 1. Max Psenicka is a 6-foot-4 right-shot defender with clear upside and ample room for physical maturation. He thrives playing at a high pace, showing poise under pressure and delivering crisp first passes that jumpstart the transition. With his size, composure, and raw tools, he offers massive long-term stopping potential once his frame and game fully round out. One the hottest risers among teams in the second-half.
31. Bill Zonnon | LW | Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL) | Philadelphia Flyers (via Edmonton Oilers)
Bill Zonnon brings a powerful blend of pace, skill, and physical engagement to the Flyers’ system. He was a standout for Drummondville this season, especially in the second half, where his confidence and production spiked. Zonnon attacks with purpose, can beat defenders off the wall, and has a heavy release that makes him a scoring threat from range. He fits the mold of a modern power forward and offers Philadelphia a potential middle-six winger who can play in all situations.
32. Sascha Boumedienne | LHD | Boston University (NCAA) | Calgary Flames (via Florida Panthers)
At this point in the draft, Sascha Boumedienne offers the Flames a mobile, intelligent puck-mover with strong instincts in transition. His record-setting U18s turned heads, but his offensive game may not fully match those numbers long-term. Still, the skating, vision, and poise suggest top-four potential.
ROUND TWO
33. San Jose - Cullen Potter | LW | Arizona State (NCAA)
34. Chicago - Vaclav Nestrasil | RW | Muskegon (USHL)
35. Nashville - Hoaxi Wang | LD | Oshawa (OHL)
36. Philadelphia - Semyon Frolov | G | MHK Spartak Moskova (MHL)
37. Washington (Via Boston) - Kurban Limatov | RD | MHK Spartak Moskova (MHL)
38. Seattle - Ryker Lee | RW | Madison (USHL)
39. Buffalo - Jack Murtagh | RW | US National U18 (NTDP)
40. Philadelphia (Via Anaheim) - Alexander Zharovsky | RW | Tolpar (MHL)
41. Montreal (via Pittsburgh) - William Horcoff | LW/C | Michigan (NCAA)
42. New York Islanders - William Moore | LW/C | USNTDP U18
43. New York Rangers - Jakob Ihs-Wozniak | LW/C | Luleå (J20)
44. Detroit - Eric Nilson | C | Djurgårdens (J20)
45. Anaheim (via Columbus through Philadelphia) - Milton Gastrin | C | MoDo (J20)
46. Utah - Nathan Behm | LW | Kamploops (WHL)
47. Vancouver - Benjamin Kevan | W | Des Moines (USHL)
48. Philadelphia (via Calgary) - Jacob Rombach | LD | Lincoln (USHL)
49. Montreal - Luca Romano | C | Kitchener (OHL)
50. New Jersey - Cole McKinney | C | USNTDP
51. Boston (via St. Louis) - Peyton Kettles | RD | Swift Current (WHL)
52. Minnesota - Matthew Gard | C | Red Deer (WHL)
53. San Jose (via Ottawa) - Cameron Schmidt | LW | Vancouver (WHL)
54. Calgary (via Colorado) - Theo Stockselius | C/LW | Djurgårdens (J20)
55. Nashville (via Tampa Bay) - David Bedkowski | RD | Owen Sound (OHL)
56. Tampa Bay (via LA) - Alexei Medvedev | G | London (OHL)
57. Seattle (via Toronto) - Ivan Ryabkin | C/LW | Muskegon (USHL)
58. Vegas - Ethan Czata | C/RW | Niagara (OHL)
59. Pittsburgh (via Washington) - L.J. Mooney | C/RW | USNTDP
60. Anaheim (via Winnipeg) - Bruno Osmanis | RW | Björklöven (J20)
61. Bostons (via Carolina) - Charlie Trethewey | RD | USNTDP
62. Chicago (via Dallas) - Daniil Prokhorov | LW | Dynamo (MHL)
63. New Jersey (via Edmonton) - Tyler Hopkins | C | Kingston (OHL)
64. Toronto (via Florida) - Kristian Epperson | LW | Saginaw (OHL)
