2025 NHL DRAFT: MOCK DRAFT ROUND 1

The 2025 NHL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, with plenty of talent and intriguing team decisions. This is a mock draft of the 2025 NHL Draft, this blog will only be on Round 1.

Related: Top 100 Prospects

1. New York Islanders- Matthew Schaefer (D)- Erie Otters (OHL)

Matthew Schaefer is an excellent fit for the New York Islanders, addressing a key organizational need on defense. Schaefer, with his elite skating, puck-moving ability, and high hockey IQ, is projected to be a top-pairing defenseman, something the Islanders desperately need. His ability to control the pace of play, distribute the puck efficiently, and adapt to different situations makes him a strong candidate to anchor the Islanders’ blue line in the future. While the team considered selecting James Hagens, a highly skilled center, Schaefer’s ability to stabilize the defense and contribute offensively ultimately made him the preferred choice.

2. San Jose Sharks- Michael Misa (C)- Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

Michael Misa is a highly skilled, dynamic center who fits well with the San Jose Sharks’ rebuilding efforts. The Sharks already have Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith as promising young centers, but adding Misa gives them a high-end offensive weapon who can complement their existing talent. Misa has been compared to Kirill Kaprizov and Nikita Kucherov, showcasing his elite skating, playmaking, and ability to create offense in tight spaces. While the Sharks originally had preffered to draft a Number 1 Defenseman like Matthew Schaefer, they recognized Misa possessed game-changing abilities. Misa himself expressed excitement about joining the Sharks, citing their young core and promising future.

3. Chicago Blackahwks- Anton Frondell (C)- Djurgardens (SHL)

Anton Frondell would be a strong selection for the Chicago Blackhawks at No. 3 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end two-way center who complements their existing young core. Frondell is a complete player, excelling in both offensive and defensive situations. His ability to pressure opponents, force turnovers, and control play in tight spaces makes him a valuable asset. At 6’1″ and 204 pounds, he has the size to compete at the NHL level. His powerful stride and ability to shield the puck allow him to win battles along the boards. Frondell has an impressive shot, including a dangerous one-timer and a quick-release wrist shot. His production in Sweden’s HockeyAllsvenskan exceeded past draft-year performances from stars like David Pastrňák and William Nylander. While some scouts believe Frondell could transition to the wing, his strong defensive instincts and ability to drive play make him a compelling option down the middle.

4. Utah Hockey Club- Porter Martone (RW)- Mississauga Steelheads (OHL)

Porter Martone would be an excellent selection for the Utah Mammoth at No. 4 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-impact power forward who fits their long-term vision. Martone is a highly skilled winger with exceptional hands, playmaking ability, and a lethal shot. His ability to create offense in tight spaces makes him a dangerous scoring threat. At 6’3″ and 208 pounds, Martone plays a power-forward style, using his size and strength to dominate along the boards. He also captained his junior team, showcasing strong leadership qualities. The Mammoth need top-end offensive talent to complement their young core. While they have promising centers, Martone’s blend of skill and physicality would add a new dimension to their attack. If Utah wants a high-impact winger who can drive play and score, Martone is the obvious choice.

5. Nashville Predators- James Hagens (C)- Boston College (NCAA)

James Hagens would be a fantastic pick for the Nashville Predators at No. 5 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end playmaking center who could transform their offensive structure. Hagens is one of the best passers in the draft, capable of threading the needle in tight spaces and creating high-danger scoring chances. His ability to elevate his linemates would be invaluable for Nashville. – The Predators have strong wingers but they lack a true No. 1 center to drive their offense. Hagens could be the missing piece to their top-six puzzle. His ability to read the game, anticipate plays, and adjust under pressure makes him a natural fit for a team looking to build around smart, skilled players. For a Nashville team trying to transform itself into a team based on skill, this pick is a no-brainer.

6. Philadelphia Flyers- Caleb Desnoyers (C)- Montcon Wildcts (QMJHL)

Caleb Desnoyers would be a fantastic pick for the Philadelphia Flyers at No. 6 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end two-way center who fits their long-term needs. Desnoyers is one of the best defensive forwards in the draft, capable of shutting down opponents while still producing offensively. His ability to control the pace of play makes him a valuable asset. He was named Moncton’s captain for the 2025-26 season, showing his ability to lead both on and off the ice. Desnoyers recorded 84 points (35 goals, 49 assists) in 56 games, then elevated his play in the postseason with 30 points in 19 games, leading Moncton to a QMJHL championship. Philadelphia lacks a true No. 1 center, and Desnoyers’ shutdown ability and offensive upside make him an ideal candidate to fill that role.

7. Boston Bruins- Jake O’Brien (C)- Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)

Jake O’Brien would be a great pick for the Boston Bruins at No. 7 in the 2025 NHL Draft, addressing their long-term need for a top-six center. – O’Brien is a high-IQ playmaker who can slow the game down and create scoring chances. His ability to thread passes through tight spaces makes him a valuable offensive asset. He recorded 98 points (32 goals, 66 assists) in 66 games for the Brantford Bulldogs (OHL), showing significant growth from his previous season. The Bruins have lacked a young, elite center since the retirements of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. O’Brien could be the long-term solution to their top-line center dilemma. At 6’2″, O’Brien has the frame and strength to compete at the NHL level. His ability to protect the puck and win battles makes him a strong two-way presence. He’s still only 18, meaning Boston has time to develop him into a franchise cornerstone. While some scouts believe Brady Martin could be a better fit due to his physical, two-way style, O’Brien’s playmaking ability and offensive upside make him a compelling choice for Boston.

8 Seattle Kraken- Jackson Smith (D)- Tri-City Americans (WHL)

Jackson Smith would be an excellent pick for the Seattle Kraken at No. 8 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end, physical defenseman who fits their long-term needs. Smith is a big, physical defenseman at 6’3″, 190 lbs, known for his ability to separate opponents from the puck and win battles along the boards. His skating and puck-handling allow him to start the rush effectively, either by carrying the puck himself or making a smart first pass. The Kraken need a top-pairing defenseman to complement their young core. Smith’s size, mobility, and defensive reliability make him an ideal candidate. Smith is a slam-dunk pick for Seattle if he is still available at 8.

9. Buffalo Sabres- Radim Mrtka (D)- Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)

Radim Mrtka would be a great pick for the Buffalo Sabres at No. 9 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a towering, two-way defenseman who fits their long-term needs. At 6’6″ and 198 pounds, Mrtka is an imposing force on the ice. His long reach and smart positioning make life difficult for opposing puck carriers. His skating and puck-moving ability allow him to start the rush effectively, either by carrying the puck himself or making a smart first pass. The Sabres have a young defensive core, but they lack a true shutdown defenseman. Mrtka’s size, mobility, and defensive reliability make him an ideal candidate. Since arriving in North America, Mrtka has significantly developed his offensive game, making him one of the top two-way defensive prospects in this draft class.

10. Anaheim Ducks- Kashawn Aicheson (D)- Barrie Colts (OHL)

Kashawn Aitcheson would be a strong pick for the Anaheim Ducks in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a physical, two-way defenseman who fits their long-term needs. Aitcheson is a hard-hitting, shutdown defenseman who plays with an edge. His ability to clear the crease and engage physically makes him a valuable asset. He led all OHL defensemen with 26 goals and 59 points, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a strong defensive presence. The Ducks need a top-four defenseman who can bring size, physicality, and offensive upside. Aitcheson’s blend of skill and toughness makes him an ideal candidate. He has been praised for his leadership and ability to shift momentum through high-impact plays, including bone-crushing hits and clutch goals. While Anaheim could prioritize offensive firepower, Aitcheson’s two-way ability and physical dominance make him a compelling choice for the Ducks.

11. Pittsburgh Penguins- Carter Bear (C/LW)- Everett Silvertips (WHL)

Carter Bear would be a terrific pick for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a versatile, high-energy forward who fits their long-term needs. Bear recorded 40 goals and 42 assists (82 points) in 56 games for the Everett Silvertips (WHL), showcasing his ability to generate offense in all situations. Despite being 6’0″ and 176 pounds, Bear plays with grit and intensity, engaging physically to win puck battles and extend offensive zone possessions. The Penguins need young, high-energy forwards to complement their aging core. Bear’s blend of skill, physicality, and defensive awareness makes him an ideal candidate. He has shown excellent anticipation and positioning, closing scoring lanes before they open and contributing.

12. New York Rangers- Brady Martin (C)- Soo Greyhounds (OHL)

Brady Martin would be a strong pick for the New York Rangers at No. 12 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a physical, high-energy center who fits their long-term needs. Martin is known as a one-man wrecking ball, using his aggressive forechecking and physical play to create turnovers and disrupt opposing defenses. He recorded 72 points (33 goals, 39 assists) in 57 games for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL), showcasing his ability to contribute offensively.
The Rangers need a gritty, two-way center to complement their skilled forwards. Martin’s blend of toughness and offensive ability makes him an ideal candidate. He led Team Canada to a gold medal at the IIHF U18 World Championship, earning Tournament All-Star MVP honors. Some scouts compare him to Sam Bennett with Mika Zibanejad’s finishing ability, citing his grit, offensive instincts, and ability to thrive in clutch situations. Martin’s physicality and ability to drive play make him a compelling choice.

13. Detroit Red Wings- Victor Eklund (LW)- Farjestad BK (SHL)

Victor Eklund would be a fantastic pick for the Detroit Red Wings at No. 13 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end offensive winger with strong playmaking ability and a quick release. Eklund understands the value of time and space, constantly working to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. He recorded 19 goals and 31 points in 42 games while playing in Sweden’s second-tier league. He processes the game at a high speed, anticipating plays and positioning himself effectively to receive passes or launch a one-timer. The Red Wings have a strong defensive pipeline but need top-six offensive talent. Eklund’s ability to drive play and create scoring chances makes him an ideal candidate. While not a defensive specialist, Eklund understands the importance of sound defensive fundamentals, making him a well-rounded prospect. Despite his 6’0″, 163-pound frame, he competes hard in puck battles and doesn’t shy away from physical play. Eklund has been ranked inside the top 10 of this draft class for a while, but recent projections suggest Detroit could have a shot at drafting him. If he’s available, he could be a game-changing selection for the Red Wings.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets- Cameron Reid (D)- Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

Cameron Reid would be a strong pick for the Columbus Blue Jackets at No. 14 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end, two-way defenseman who fits their long-term needs. Reid is a smart, mobile defenseman who excels at gap control and shutting down rushes. His ability to read plays and disrupt offensive transitions makes him a valuable asset. He recorded 45 points (12 goals, 33 assists) in 58 games for the Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL), showcasing his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a strong defensive presence. The Blue Jackets have a young, skilled forward group, but they need a top-four defenseman who can bring stability and puck-moving ability to their blue line. At 6’2″ and 190 pounds, Reid combines size with excellent positioning and playmaking ability, making him a reliable two-way defenseman. Scouts believe Reid has top-pairing potential, with comparisons to Devon Toews due to his ability to control the pace of play and make smart decisions under pressure. Reid’s blend of defensive reliability and offensive skill makes him a compelling choice.

15. Vancouver Canucks- Braeden Cootes (C)- Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)

The Vancouver Canucks hold the 15th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, and they are reportedly interested in Braeden Cootes, a two-way center from the Seattle Thunderbirds. Cootes is known for his strong playmaking ability, defensive reliability, and leadership, having captained both his junior team and Team Canada at the U18s. Cootes excels at creating zone entries and exits, using his strong puck-handling ability to drive play. He is one of the best board battlers in the WHL, consistently forcing turnovers and shutting down top opponents. The Canucks need a right-shot center to strengthen their prospect pool, something they have lacked since trading away Bo Horvat. His ability to step up in key moments and lead his team makes him a valuable long-term asset.

16. Montreal Canadiens (from CGY)- Roger McQueen (F)- Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

Roger McQueen would be a great pick for the Montreal Canadiens in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a big, skilled center who fits their long-term needs. At 6’5″ and 192 pounds, McQueen is a towering presence who excels at protecting the puck and creating offense in tight spaces. He recorded 51 points in 53 games last season while averaging 17:31 of ice time, showing his ability to contribute consistently. The Canadiens need a high-end center to complement their young core. McQueen’s blend of size, skill, and net-front presence makes him an ideal candidate. He thrives in high-pressure situations, using deceptive movements to set goalies off balance and capitalize on scoring chances. McQueen has shown improvement and continues to refine his stride. If Montreal wants a big, skilled center who can dominate in tight spaces, McQueen is a strong choice.

17. Montreal Canadiens- Justin Carbonneau (RW)- Blainville-Boisbriand Armanda (QMJHL)

Justin Carbonneau would be an exciting pick for the Montreal Canadiens in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a dynamic, high-skill winger who thrives in offensive situations. Here’s why he makes sense for Montreal Elite Puck Skills & Creativity – Carbonneau is known for his ability to dangle through defenders, often creating highlight-reel plays. His ability to control the puck at high speeds makes him a dangerous offensive weapon. He recorded 46 goals and 43 assists in 62 games, finishing as the second-best scorer in the QMJHL. The Canadiens need high-end offensive talent to complement their young core. Carbonneau’s ability to drive play and create scoring chances makes him an ideal candidate. Despite his 6’1″, 192-pound frame, he plays with grit and intensity, engaging physically to win puck battles. As a Québécois prospect, Carbonneau would bring excitement to the fanbase, though his skill alone makes him a worthy selection. While he needs to refine his decision-making, his raw offensive talent and ability to take over games make him a compelling choice for Montreal.

18. Calgary Flames (from NJ)- Lynden Lakovic (F)- Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

Lynden Lakovic would be a strong pick for the Calgary Flames in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a big, skilled winger who fits their long-term needs. At 6’4″ and 190 pounds, Lakovic is a powerful presence who excels at winning puck battles and creating space for his teammates. He recorded 27 goals and 31 assists (58 points) in 47 games for the Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL), leading his team in scoring. The Flames need top-six offensive talent, and Lakovic’s blend of size, skill, and net-front presence makes him an ideal candidate. He was named Moose Jaw’s captain in February, showcasing his ability to lead both on and off the ice. Despite his size, Lakovic is a strong skater with a powerful stride, making him difficult to defend. Lakovic has been rising in draft rankings due to his dominant WHL season and strong NHL Combine performance, making Lakovic is an ideal selection.

19. St. Louis Blues- Malcolm Spence (LW)- Erie Otters (OHL)

The St. Louis Blues could looking to take a defenseman when they make their first selection of the 2025 Draft, but if Cam Reid is already taken, the next best option would be Malcolm Spence, a versatile, two-way forward who excels in special teams play, making him a strong fit for the Blues. Spence is a high-impact player on both the power play and penalty kill, scoring five special teams goals in the 2024-25 OHL season. He recorded 32 goals and 41 assists (73 points) in 65 games for the Erie Otters, showing his ability to contribute offensively. St. Louis has a balanced prospect pool, but adding a high-energy forward with strong defensive instincts could be a valuable addition. At 6’2″ and 201 pounds, Spence uses his size and strength to win battles and shut down opposing scoring threats. He will transfer to the University of Michigan, which could help refine his game and prepare him for the NHL. Spence’s blend of offensive skill, defensive reliability, and special teams impact makes him a compelling choice for the Blues.

20. Columbus Blue Jackets(from MIN)- Benjamin Kindel (RW)- Calgary Hitmen (WHL)

Benjamin Kindel would be a strong pick for the Columbus Blue Jackets at No. 20 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end playmaker with strong two-way ability. Kindel is one of the best assist-generators in the WHL, frequently setting up his teammates for high-danger scoring chances. He recorded 99 points (35 goals, 64 assists) in 65 games for the Calgary Hitmen, ranking among the top WHL scorers. The Blue Jackets need high-end offensive talent, and Kindel’s ability to drive play and create scoring chances makes him an ideal candidate. Despite being 5’10” and 176 pounds, Kindel is strong in board battles and contributes defensively. His ability to read the game, anticipate plays, and make smart decisions under pressure. Kindel’s blend of offensive skill and defensive responsibility makes him a compelling choice.

21. Ottawa Senators- Sascha Boumiedience (D)- Boston University (NCAA)

Sascha Boumiediene would be a strong pick for the Ottawa Senators in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end offensive defenseman who fits their long-term needs. Boumiediene is a dynamic puck-moving defenseman with elite vision and passing, making him a strong power-play quarterback. His skating and mobility allow him to jump into the rush and create scoring chances, making him a valuable asset for Ottawa’s offensive system. The Senators need a top-four defenseman who can bring offensive upside and puck-moving ability to their blue line. He broke the single-tournament scoring record for a defenseman at the U18 World Championship, recording 14 points in five games.
Some scouts believe his offensive instincts and skating ability resemble Karlsson’s style, making him an exciting prospect for Ottawa. While Ottawa could target a shutdown defenseman, Boumiediene’s potential makes him hard to pass up.

22. Philadelphia Flyers (from COL)- Logan Hensler (D)- Wisconsin (NCAA)

Logan Hensler would be a strong pick for the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a shutdown, two-way defenseman who fits their long-term needs. Hensler is a shutdown defenseman with strong gap control and neutral zone dominance, making him a reliable presence on the blue line. He excels at transitioning the puck efficiently, making smart outlet passes under pressure. At 6’2″, 190 pounds, he plays a steady, physical game, using his size effectively to win battles. the Flyers need high-end defensive prospects, and Hensler’s blend of size, mobility, and defensive reliability makes him an ideal candidate. Scouts praise his defensive reliability and ability to shut down top opponents, making him a strong long-term asset. Hensler’s blend of defensive skill and transition ability makes him an ideal defensive prospect for the Flyers.

23. Nashville Predators (from TB)- Blake Fiddler (D)- Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

Blake Fiddler would be a great pick for the Nashville Predators in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a big, shutdown defenseman who fits their long-term needs. At 6’4″, Fiddler is an intimidating presence who excels at taking away space and shutting down rushes. He plays a smart, positional game, using his reach and strength to disrupt offensive plays. The Predators have historically built around strong defensive play, and Fiddler’s shutdown ability aligns with their system. He has been a top-pairing defenseman for the Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL), averaging 22 minutes per night. Comparable to Colton Parayko, his blend of size, mobility, and defensive reliability resembles Parayko’s shutdown style. Fiddler was born in Nashville while his father, Vernon Fiddler, played for the Predators, making this a full-circle moment if he’s drafted by the team.

24. Los Angeles Kings- Cullen Porter (LW)- Arizona State (NCAA)

Cullen Potter would be a strong pick for the Los Angeles Kings at No. 24 in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-speed, creative forward who fits their long-term needs. Potter is arguably the best skater in the draft, using his explosive acceleration and edge work to create separation and drive play. He recorded 13 goals and 22 points in 35 games as a 17-year-old freshman at Arizona State University, ranking second among draft-eligible NCAA players. The Kings need dynamic offensive talent, and Potter’s ability to carry the puck through all three zones makes him an ideal candidate. Porter’s ability to stretch the neutral zone, cut through traffic, and create high-danger chances, making him a strong offensive weapon. Cullen’s speed and puck-handling ability resemble Matt Barzal, making him a potential game-changer. Potter’s blend of speed, skill, and offensive creativity makes him a no-brainer selection if he is
available at 24.

25. Chicago Blackhawks (from TOR)- Joshua Ravensbergen (G)- Prince George Cougars (WHL)

Joshua Ravensbergen would be a strong pick for the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-end goaltending prospect who fits their long-term needs. At 6’5″ and 192 pounds, Ravensbergen is a big, confident goaltender who uses his size effectively to cover the net. He posted a 3.01 goals-against average (GAA) and a .901 save percentage in 51 games for the Prince George Cougars, showing consistency. Chicago Blackhawks need a future starting goaltender, and Ravensbergen’s blend of size, composure, and clutch performances makes him an ideal candidate. His right-catching glove is rare among NHL goalies, which could give him an advantage against shooters accustomed to left-catching netminders. Ravensbergen has the potential to become a starting goaltender at the NHL level, and would be a terrific in tandem with Spencer Knight, several years down the line.

26. Nashville Predators (from VGK)- Jack Nesbitt (C)- Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

Jack Nesbitt would be a strong pick for the Nashville Predators in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a big, two-way center who fits their long-term needs. At 6’4″ and 183 pounds, Nesbitt is a big-bodied center who excels in the faceoff circle and plays a mature game. He is a solid playmaker with good overall skating and a strong defensive work ethic, making him a reliable presence in all situations. Nesbitt’s blend of size, skill, and defensive reliability makes him an ideal candidate. Comparable to Jordan Staal, his blend of size, defensive ability, and faceoff dominance makes a potential terrific third line center. Although Nashville already drafted a center earlies in the draft, they can never have too
much center depth in the pipeline.

27. Washington Capitals- Jack Murtagh (C/LW)- USDP/NTDP

Jack Murtagh would be a strong pick for the Washington Capitals in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a hard-working, two-way forward who fits their long-term needs. Murtagh plays a fearless, blue-collar game, finishing every check and battling hard in the crease. He recorded 22 goals and 53 points in 56 games for the U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP), despite missing time with an early-season injury. The Capitals need high-energy forwards who can complement their aging core, and Murtagh’s blend of grit and offensive ability makes him an ideal candidate. He led the NTDP in power-play goals (7) and shots on goal (138), showing his ability to generate offense in key situations. His relentless style and ability to produce in clutch moments make him a perfect fit for playoff hockey. Murtagh isn’t a flashy player, but his grit, scoring ability, and leadership make him a coach’s dream, and perfect player to select
at the end of the first round.

28. Winnipeg Jets- Haoxi Wang (D)- Oshawa Generals (OHL)

Haoxi Wang would be a strong pick for the Winnipeg Jets in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a towering, mobile defenseman with intriguing upside. At 6’6″ and 210 pounds, Wang is an exceptionally smooth skater for his size, allowing him to close gaps efficiently and disrupt rushes. He has improved his positional play and decision-making, making fewer mistakes since transitioning to the OHL. The Jets need a long-term, top-four defenseman, and Wang’s blend of size, mobility, and defensive reliability makes him an ideal candidate. He uses his size effectively in board battles and has shown a willingness to engage physically. Wang has top-pairing potential, with comparisons to Victor Hedman due to his ability to control the pace of play and make smart decisions under pressure. Haoxi Wang could turn out to be a steal at the end of the first round if he pans out.

29. Carolina Hurricanes- Ivan Ryabkin (C)- Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)

Ivan Ryabkin would be a high-risk, high-reward pick for the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a skilled, physical center with intriguing upside. Ryabkin has strong puck-handling ability and can create offense through both physical play and finesse. He recorded 58 points in 44 games in Russia’s MHL, outpacing past top prospects like Matvei Michkov at the same age. The Hurricanes need center depth, as their prospect pool is stronger on the wings. Ryabkin plays a bruising style, engaging physically in all three zones, which could translate well to the NHL. While his draft stock has fallen, some scouts believe he still has top-six potential, making him a worthwhile gamble. Ryabkin’s raw talent and physicality make him an intriguing option, but his inconsistencies and defensive lapses have raised concerns. If Carolina wants to take a swing on a high-upside center, Ryabkin could be a strong choice. Because Carolina is in no rush to develop prospects right now, they are in the position to try to swing for the fences with this pick.

30. San Jose Sharks (from DAL)- Bill Zonnon (LW)- Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

Bill Zonnon would be a strong pick for the San Jose Sharks in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a versatile, high-skill forward who fits their long-term needs. Zonnon led all draft-eligible players in the QMJHL with 55 assists, showcasing his ability to create offense. He recorded 28 goals and 83 points for the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, ranking fourth among U19 players in the league. The Sharks need high-end offensive talent, and Zonnon’s ability to drive play and set up teammates makes him an ideal candidate. While primarily a left winger, he has also played center, making him a valuable asset for lineup flexibility. His vision and passing ability resemble Jonathan Huberdeau, making him a potential top-six forward. Zonnon’s blend of offensive skill, versatility, and playmaking ability makes him a compelling choice for San Jose, but it comes with a risk because that would mean San Jose would have used both their first round picks on forwards, when their biggest need is defense.

31. Calgary Flames (from FLA)- Henry Brzustewicz (D)- London Knights (OHL)

Henry Brzustewicz would be a strong pick for the Calgary Flames in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a smooth-skating, puck-moving defenseman who fits their long-term needs. Brzustewicz excels at moving the puck efficiently out of his own zone, making smart breakout passes and leading offensive rushes. He recorded 42 points in 67 games for the London Knights (OHL), showing his ability to contribute offensively. The Flames are rebuilding their defensive core, and Brzustewicz’s blend of mobility and offensive skill makes him an ideal candidate. His pinpoint wrist shot from the point can get through traffic, creating scoring chances and rebounds. His skating and puck-moving ability resemble players like Devon Toews, making him a valuable long-term asset. Brzustewicz has been rising in draft rankings due to his strong offensive instincts and ability to control play.

32. Philadelphia Flyers (from EDM)- Cole Reschny (F)- Victoria Royals (WHL)

Cole Reschny would be a strong pick for the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2025 NHL Draft, offering a high-skill, versatile forward who fits their long-term needs. Reschny led all draft-eligible players in the WHL with 55 assists, showcasing his ability to create offense. He recorded 26 goals and 92 points for the Victoria Royals, ranking among the top U19 players in the league. The Flyers need high-end offensive talent, and Reschny’s ability to drive play and set up teammates makes him an ideal candidate. While primarily a center, he has also played wing, making him a valuable asset for lineup flexibility. The Flyers selection of Cole Reschny is a solid one and wraps up Round 1 of the 2025 NHL Draft.