2025 NHL Mock Draft: Final Predictions for the Top 32 Picks

Selecting Matthew Schaefer at the top spot seems like a straightforward decision. While the narrative surrounding Long Island native and Islanders fan James Hagens is compelling (and will be addressed later), Schaefer is widely regarded as the clear-cut best player available in this draft class.

Many scouts believe he possesses the potential to become a franchise cornerstone defenseman capable of driving play effectively at both ends of the ice. The Islanders face significant decisions on their defense with Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov requiring new contracts, likely at high values, and both have been subjects of trade rumors. Given this situation, the Islanders clearly view Schaefer as their future top defenseman. If Dobson is retained, Schaefer`s arrival could allow the veteran to shift into a role that suits him better, easing some of the demanding responsibilities.

Schaefer`s draft year was significantly impacted by injury. While another year in the NCAA for development would undoubtedly be beneficial, it seems unlikely. Even without that, the Islanders can reasonably project him to step into a significant role in their lineup as a rookie. It wouldn`t be surprising to see Schaefer quarterbacking the power play, logging top-four minutes, and becoming a staple on the Islanders` blueline from the start of the upcoming season.

There`s some chatter surrounding the Sharks` pick heading into draft weekend, particularly given their need on defense and their reported interest in center Anton Frondell. However, passing on a talent like Misa for any reason would be ill-advised. While a gap exists between Schaefer and Misa, the difference between Misa and the next group of players is even wider.

Adding a dynamic offensive threat with above-average two-way capabilities to a young lineup that already includes Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith is incredibly exciting. Misa can play both center and wing, but his two-way game is arguably more impactful at center, potentially giving the Sharks a formidable one-two punch down the middle for years to come. A top-six forward group featuring Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Misa – all aged 22 or younger – would provide San Jose with a potent attack and reliable two-way play drivers at center.

Misa brings explosive scoring ability, excellent speed, and elite hockey sense combined with a relentless work ethic. It`s conceivable that he could step into the lineup this season and make a similar impact to what Celebrini did as a rookie in 2024-25, thanks to his complete skill set and professional habits across the ice.

This is where the draft truly begins to get interesting. There are rumors that Chicago could trade this pick, but if they keep it, Frondell or Porter Martone appear to be the most likely selections. While Hagens might be the best available player, it seems Chicago prefers a larger player to potentially complement Connor Bedard.

In this scenario, Chicago hopes Frondell can eventually slot into the lineup behind Bedard, providing two-way value along with an elite shot release and the knack for finding open ice to get his shot away. Frondell would likely benefit from another development season outside the NHL before making the leap, allowing him to become a more well-rounded play driver.

When he is ready, the Blackhawks could position Frondell opposite Bedard on the power play, creating a dual threat with elite shot releases from both flanks. Ideally, Frondell develops into a powerful two-way center capable of leading a second line, giving Chicago a formidable offensive and defensive punch down the middle for years.

There is a significant possibility that Utah will not make this selection and will trade the pick. If they do trade down or out, James Hagens is expected to be the target for the acquiring team. However, Utah has expressed a desire for players with `hard skill,` a description that fits two players well: Caleb Desnoyers and Brady Martin. Both are legitimate possibilities for the Mammoth, who aim to add more physical presence to a top six that includes Clayton Keller, Logan Cooley, and Dylan Guenther.

It is widely known that Martin ranks high on Utah`s draft list, and he solidified this position with an excellent impression during his meeting with Mammoth management at the scouting combine. The `farm boy` style player is reportedly sought after by multiple teams, including Philadelphia and Boston. Some speculate he could develop into a player similar to Sam Bennett, someone whose regular-season point production might be modest but who performs exceptionally well in the playoffs. Utah believes they need more grit and determination at the top of their lineup, and among the top prospects, no one embodies this more than Martin.

No team has scouted Porter Martone more extensively than Nashville; their upper management was reportedly in attendance to watch him play on numerous occasions. Martone potentially possesses the best hockey sense and vision in this draft class, and is also considered among the top contenders for puck skill. Adding an elite shot to his playmaking abilities results in a 6-foot-3 forward who demonstrates both physical and soft skills, with a very high potential ceiling.

While he may not reach the level of Mikko Rantanen, Rantanen is his second-closest comparable in the author`s model regarding NHL potential, alongside Cole Caufield (obviously not in terms of size).

If you are Predators GM Barry Trotz, the focus would be on helping Martone develop his physical game to become a more imposing force, creating the foundation for a dual-threat forward who will be challenging for opponents to handle. If the Predators don`t select Martone, Trotz has clearly stated his value for upside and skill. If he truly prioritizes that, Hagens appears to be the player. However, there`s a quiet suspicion that Nashville could potentially acquire an NHL player and additional assets from the Islanders in exchange for this selection if Hagens is still available.

The Flyers are in significant need of centers, and if Hagens somehow drops to them at No. 6, they should follow a similar approach to their Matvei Michkov pick and select the player who perhaps shouldn`t have been available so late. The possibility of adding both Michkov and Hagens to their future top lines without drafting in the top five in either draft year would be enormously valuable for the organization.

Hagens would immediately become the Flyers` top center prospect. The team is not under pressure to rush him through college, given that Sean Couturier, Noah Cates, and recently acquired Trevor Zegras are already on the NHL roster. When he`s ready, Hagens can step in and provide a much-needed offensive spark for the Flyers. His speed, puck skill, and exceptional playmaking ability would complement Michkov well, especially if he further develops his play-driving capability with another season at Boston College. The detailed aspects of his game should help him earn the coach`s trust and become a key offensive contributor for the Flyers for many years.

Another pick that could potentially be traded, but if the Bruins make the selection themselves, Desnoyers would be an ideal fit for the organization. A French-Canadian two-way center known for his excellent shutdown ability, clutch performance, and leadership in a Bruins uniform should resonate familiar to the team`s 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-end hockey sense. His defensive game is already considered NHL-ready. If he can improve his speed, the Bruins would have a legitimate offensive threat capable of handling tough matchups in key situations.

There`s a generally recognized group of six top prospects after Schaefer and Misa, and Seattle is likely to select whoever remains from that group. However, the Kraken also have a significant need for defensemen, leading to speculation they might trade back a few spots into the range where Radim Mrtka and Jackson Smith are projected.

If they retain the No. 8 pick, Jake O`Brien is the likely selection, unless they opt for Roger McQueen. Seattle already has considerable depth at center with young players like Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Berkly Catton (all 22 or younger). O`Brien is a highly talented player and his selection might allow the Kraken to potentially shift Catton to the 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 add speed to reach his potential as a playmaking top-six center. He should develop into a significant offensive facilitator, capable of quarterbacking the power play and setting up his wingers effectively.

The Sabres possess a decent prospect pool, but the organization has specific needs for high-end centers and right-handed defensive prospects. Both Mrtka and McQueen should be available at this position, but it seems the large defenseman is their target.

The 6-foot-6, right-handed defenseman shows promising mobility and quality transition defending skills, making him a potentially perfect partner for either Rasmus Dahlin or Owen Power. Adding Mrtka provides the Sabres with another quality defenseman featuring projectable shutdown ability, as the organization continues its efforts to end the NHL`s longest playoff drought.

The Ducks could very well trade this pick in exchange for immediate NHL help; GM Pat Verbeek has already been notably active this offseason. However, if they keep the pick, selecting a towering center who is considered a top-five talent in the draft makes a lot of sense.

The Ducks took McQueen out to dinner at the combine and appear to have conducted extensive research into his back injury. If the Ducks are confident that the injury will not pose a long-term issue, adding a powerful 6-foot-5 center with the potential to become a dominant two-way force is an obvious choice. The only limiting factor to McQueen`s potential ceiling is his body`s ability to withstand the rigors of the game. If his health holds up, he could potentially develop into one of the best players from this draft class. That potential reward is certainly worth the risk for the Ducks.

Holding two consecutive picks, the Penguins might attempt to move up to secure an elite prospect – their combined pick value is nearly equivalent to the No. 3 pick, so moving up is likely not out of the question. Failing that, the Penguins have an opportunity to add two significant players to their prospect pipeline.

If McQueen were available here, they would likely consider him seriously. However, adding Smith to their defensive depth would be smart business for the Penguins, whose current defensive prospects include Owen Pickering and Harrison Brunicke. Smith is big, physical, and possesses legitimate offensive potential. He should be capable of playing a shutdown role while also driving offense from the back end. He exhibits poise with the puck and will be located close to the Penguins` brass while attending Penn State.

There are many appealing aspects to the package Smith brings, and the Penguins could definitely use a player with his combination of size, skating, composure, and offensive upside.

With their second consecutive pick, the Penguins land another player with top-10 talent in Viktor Eklund. Carter Bear and Lynden Lakovic would also be considerations here, given their outstanding offensive talents.

Regarding Eklund, he plays a style that translates well to the NHL and has the potential to be a 70-plus point producer in a top-line role. His excellent forechecking ability, willingness to engage physically, fearlessness in driving to the middle of the ice, and solid two-way play provide him with the tools to become a player similar to Seth Jarvis.

He is likely to be NHL-ready sooner rather than later, which is important for a team with as many veterans as the Penguins. Having Eklund learn from future Hall of Famers in the twilight of their careers could have a lasting developmental impact that helps him reach his ceiling as a first-line forward engine.

The Red Wings have a preferred player type, and fortunately for them, several players in their draft range fit that description: Bear, Eklund, and Justin Carbonneau. At least two, and potentially all three, could be available at this pick.

Bear`s elite instincts and playmaking abilities are highly attractive to many teams, including Detroit. Combined with one of the best competitive drives in the draft class, Bear possesses all the characteristics of a play-driving winger with reliable two-way ability, potentially similar to Zach Hyman.

The Red Wings already have some quality young centers, and Bear`s combination of playmaking and finishing ability around the net could see him become a key power-play operator and offensive facilitator. He would be an excellent fit for the Red Wings as a player projected to contribute significantly in their top six.

There is a distinct possibility that Columbus will trade this pick for immediate help. However, if they do not, this pick feels like the floor for Aitcheson, particularly given the Blue Jackets` need to strengthen their defensive depth.

Although Logan Hensler is also likely a strong consideration here – and the team reportedly likes him a lot – there are only a few scenarios where Aitcheson might still be available for the Jackets` second pick at No. 20, making it logical for them to select him here.

In Aitcheson, the Blue Jackets would be adding a defenseman who is still developing but has the potential to become a formidable presence to play against while providing two-way value. As one of the more raw prospects, Aitcheson will require time to develop, but there are strong reasons to believe his skill set could allow him to become a middle-pair defenseman who is difficult to play against, especially in important games.

It is perhaps the worst-kept secret in the hockey world that Vancouver is targeting a center. The Canucks notably took Cootes to dinner at the combine, have scouted him extensively throughout the season, and were reportedly very impressed by his demeanor during the combine process. Jack Nesbitt could also be a possibility here, as the Canucks value centers with size, but both Cootes and Cole Reschny are considered to have higher potential ceilings.

Cootes is projected to become a middle-six center with reliable two-way capabilities, excellent instincts away from the puck, and the ability to produce between 55 to 65 points annually. If Aitcheson were still available at this pick, the Canucks might find the big, intimidating defenseman difficult to pass up.

The Canadiens already have a dynamic offensive presence on their blueline in Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson, and Cameron Reid could potentially be a perfect defensive partner for him. Montreal management scouted Reid extensively this season, leading many to believe he is a target for one of the team`s two first-round selections. The Canadiens are another team that might consider Aitcheson if available, but Reid`s ability to drive play through excellent skating and sound decision-making is a valuable asset that`s hard to pass up.

He possesses the tools to develop into a solid top-four defenseman and doesn`t need to overly push offensively to provide value. He is considered less risky than some other available defensemen, with promising offensive upside and excellent mobility that enhances his transition game.

I personally rank Carbonneau higher on my board than most scouts because I believe he has incredibly high potential as a power forward. With Juraj Slafkovsky already part of the team`s core, the Canadiens need additional size to complement forwards like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Ivan Demidov.

Carbonneau has the potential to become a dual-threat forward in a top-six role, featuring high-end creativity. If his development fully clicks and his decision-making improves, there`s a chance Carbonneau could become a powerful, play-driving forward. The Canadiens` development staff is strong and has a good track record. Given Carbonneau`s significant upside, he represents a valuable swing for the hometown team.

Calgary needs to add depth at the center position in their prospect pool, and Cole Reschny offers good value at this point in the draft. He is a quality playmaker who excels at facilitating offense and possesses the best hockey sense among the centers likely available in this range. He lacks significant size and will need to be effective in the demanding areas of the ice to reach his potential as a second-line center, but his offensive tools are clearly present.

The details of his game are close to NHL-ready, featuring good success in puck battles, effective connective play, and strong forechecking. There is potential for him to develop into a dual-threat playmaker and shooter, which is a skill set the Flames value.

The Blues have invested a significant portion of their early draft capital in defensemen recently, and the urgent need for centers in their prospect pipeline cannot be overlooked.

Nesbitt has received considerable positive attention from team executives since the scouting combine and could potentially be selected within the top 20. The large center is likely to project as a third-line, two-way checking forward, but could exhibit elevated offensive potential if he improves his skating speed. At 6-foot-4, he brings size, strength, physicality, and the ability to effectively shut down opponents. These attributes are highly attractive to many teams, including the Blues.

It is certainly possible that the Blue Jackets could select another defenseman with their second first-round pick, and I believe it is more likely than not. Lynden Lakovic would be a strong consideration if he is available, but Logan Hensler is a player that Columbus management reportedly highly values.

He is a quality defender in the neutral zone and during transitions due to his excellent mobility, which allows him to proactively engage opponents and maintain a tight gap. The right-shot defenseman could develop into a quality No. 2 or 3 defenseman if he reaches his potential and continues to improve his offensive game.

Lakovic appears to be an excellent fit for the Senators. Management reportedly has a strong liking for the big, dual-threat winger with untapped physical potential. He is intelligent, moves very well for his 6-foot-4 frame, and should be able to establish chemistry in the top six, regardless of which center he plays with.

If Lakovic can develop his physical game, the Senators would gain a legitimate dual-threat scorer with a power forward element who should make a significant impact.

This `freight train on skates` is gaining significant momentum heading into Friday night`s first round, with a general consensus among teams that they admire his style of play and anticipate him being selected in the early 20s. Teams holding multiple first-round picks often take chances with one of their selections, and Prokhorov is certainly one such player.

The Flyers are likely to take a significant swing with at least one of their first-round picks. A large, intensely physical player with raw offensive abilities that could translate into a power forward is exactly the type of talent that a coach like Rick Tocchet would be very enthusiastic about developing.

Given their draft positions at fifth and 23rd overall, it is highly probable the Predators will select a forward at No. 5, assuming they don`t trade the pick. However, considering the lack of depth on defense in their prospect pool, Boumedienne makes a lot of sense for them at this spot.

GM Barry Trotz tends to take chances on potential upside, and Boumedienne possesses the most upside among the defensemen projected in this range. He has legitimate offensive potential, is an effective breakout passer, and is capable of playing a two-way transition game on a second defensive pair. If Logan Hensler were available, he would be a major consideration, and Blake Fiddler is also likely in the conversation, although Boumedienne and Hensler represent higher-upside options.

As highlighted in a recent prospect pool analysis, the Kings` defensive prospect cupboard is notably bare. Fortunately for them, a 6-foot-5 right-handed defenseman with NHL family connections is available at this position in this mock scenario.

Fiddler is a mobile skater who effectively neutralizes plays in transition. He possesses above-average puck retrieval skills and is projected to develop into a reliable shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. This spot is considered the appropriate range for Fiddler, and he perfectly aligns with the Kings` needs. He will have time to develop into the large, defensive cornerstone that the Kings will rely upon in the future.

Increasingly, I hear that teams are high on Nestrasil`s potential as a skilled power forward. At 6-foot-5, he adds much-needed size to the Blackhawks` prospect pool without sacrificing significant potential.

He is considered a longer-term project, but the combination of his passing ability, hockey sense, and playmaking is attractive. There is high-end upside as a power forward that is tantalizing, especially as he has significant room to fill out his frame. If he learns to leverage his physicality effectively, he could become a winger who creates space, capable of playing in the top six in a dual-threat role with a quality shot release. His upside here is well worth the risk for a Chicago team that currently lacks a large power forward in their prospect system.

Once considered a top-10 prospect, Malcolm Spence would be a strong addition to the Predators` prospect pool here. It`s possible they might consider goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen at this spot, but there is speculation he might still be available when they pick again at No. 35.

Spence offers a good mix of speed, physicality, and relentless two-way play. He`s the type of player who consistently retrieves pucks, creates space, forces turnovers with his forechecking, and can be relied upon in key situations. Spence has potential for more offensive production, and there`s a real chance he could develop into an effective, gritty second-line winger capable of handling tough matchups. The Predators currently do not have a prospect with Spence`s particular skill set, and he would represent good value if he can return to the form he showed last year.

The Capitals have a specific type of player they target and are known for taking chances in the draft. Their prospect pool has a significant need for centers. While Milton Gastrin might be a safer pick, 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 be an NHL center. Kindel`s draft-year profile is very similar to that of Brayden Point. While Kindel may not ultimately become Brayden Point, the possibility of that outcome is well worth the selection at this point.

The Jets` prospect pool is noticeably thin on defense. Their scouts have spent a considerable amount of time observing the London Knights, so Brzustewicz will be a familiar player to them.

As the season progressed, Brzustewicz demonstrated strong offensive instincts through his puck movement and ability to activate on the rush. There is significant room for offensive development, and he is expected to be London`s top defenseman next season. The right-shot blueliner provides the Jets with a defenseman projected to excel in transition, possessing good puck-moving skills and skating ability, who should comfortably fit into a second defensive pairing in the future.

The Carolina Hurricanes have a specific drafting profile, often targeting prospects with high-end skill and promising upside. It seems likely they will choose between Ryker Lee and Cullen Potter here.

Lee`s statistical profile is slightly better, and he possesses elite playmaking ability, puck skill, a powerful shot, and strong offensive instincts. His talent for identifying open areas on the ice and quickly releasing a shot or making a skillful play should translate to the NHL level. His skating will need to improve to fully capitalize on these talents, but given that skating is often considered the most easily improvable trait, Lee`s skill package could make him a home run selection.

If Cullen Potter is still available at this pick, adding the fastest player in the draft would represent excellent value for the rebuilding Sharks. While they might ideally prefer to draft a defenseman here, Potter is too valuable an asset to pass up for a team in a rebuilding phase. His promising development at the NCAA level could see him become another piece of a highly skilled top six forward group in San Jose.

There is still room for growth in Potter`s game. Given his ongoing two-way development, the speedy forward with an excellent shot release provides the young Sharks team with another offensive player who also shows potential for defensive reliability.

Selecting a forward who performs well in the playoffs, possesses two-way ability, and plays with a relentless style feels like a characteristic Philadelphia Flyers move.

Zonnon displays some of the best detailed aspects of the game among remaining players, featuring excellent forechecking, good defensive instincts, and a willingness to engage in difficult areas to win puck battles. He plays one of the styles that most easily translates to the NHL level among those available and consistently puts forth maximum effort.

The Flyers will need players who can fill these roles as they look to become contenders in the future, and Zonnon shows promising offensive playmaking traits. If he can improve his skating through development of his stride mechanics, there is a realistic path for him to become a fan favorite playing in the middle six forward group.

If Calgary selects Reschny with their first pick, it is probable they will target another center with this selection. Gastrin has a relatively safe projection as a bottom-six center.

He is more of a play driver than he is sometimes given credit for and has demonstrated the ability to compete effectively against highly skilled players. He is a high-floor prospect who showed glimpses of greater offensive ability than previously anticipated this season. At a minimum, his instincts and supportive puck play should enable him to become a reliable fixture on a checking line, trusted by coaches in crucial situations.