The excitement of the 2025 NHL offseason is underway. Following their victory over the Edmonton Oilers, the Florida Panthers have secured their second consecutive Stanley Cup championship.
The path toward the 2026 Stanley Cup Final officially begins with the highly anticipated 2025 NHL Entry Draft. This year`s event is set to take place over two days, Friday and Saturday, live from Los Angeles.
Featuring seven rounds of selections where teams will pick the future stars of the league, every moment of the draft will be broadcast across ESPN`s television channels and digital platforms.
Holding the coveted first overall selection in the draft are the New York Islanders, who earned the top pick by winning the draft lottery held in May.
Here are some essential details for following the 2025 NHL Draft:
When to Watch the 2025 NHL Draft:
The first round of the 2025 NHL Draft is scheduled for Friday evening, starting at 7 p.m. ET. Coverage will be available on ESPN, ESPN+, and Disney+. The selections continue with Rounds 2 through 7 on Saturday, beginning at 11 a.m. ET, broadcast on ESPN+ and Disney+.
How to Stream the Draft:
Fans can easily follow every draft pick live online through ESPN`s streaming services.
Leading Prospects for the 2025 NHL Draft:
According to rankings compiled by ESPN, some of the top prospects anticipated to be selected include:
- Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)
- Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)
- James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)
- Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)
- Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)
Discover More About the Prospects:
A special two-part television series offering an in-depth look at several top-ranked prospects is available. The show, titled `Welcome to the NHL: Meet the Prospects`, features exclusive behind-the-scenes access and the first episode premieres Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2.
Benedict Kingsley