In the last blog, I did a mock draft of Round 1 in the 2025 NHL, and it lays the foundations for the picks that will be made in rounds 2 and 3. In this blog, I will be doing a mock draft of Rounds 2 and 3 in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Related: 2025 NHL Mock Draft Round 1
Round 2
33. San Jose Sharks-Milton Gastron (C/LW)- Modo (J20 Nationell)
The San Jose Sharks should strongly consider drafting Milton Gästrin because he offers the kind of dependable, two-way center that can stabilize a young, evolving roster. A product of MoDo Hockey in Sweden, Gästrin has shown steady development, culminating in a breakout season with over a point per game in the J20 Nationell and a taste of SHL action. His skating is agile, his defensive awareness is mature beyond his years, and his faceoff win rate is already above 50%—a rare trait for a teenager. While his offensive ceiling may not match flashier prospects, his reliability, leadership experience, and 200-foot game make him a high-floor pick who could anchor a middle-six role for years. For a team like San Jose, already rich in high-skill forwards, Gästrin could be the glue guy who brings balance and structure to their future lineup.
34. Chicago Blackhawks-Jakob Ihs Wozniak (RW)- Lulea HF (J20 Nationell)
The Chicago Blackhawks should target Jakob Ihs-Wozniak because he brings a rare blend of size, offensive flair, and international pedigree that fits perfectly with their rebuilding blueprint. At 6’2″ and nearly 200 pounds, the Adelaide-born, Sweden-raised winger posted 57 points in 40 games in Sweden’s top junior league and flashed promise in limited SHL action. His game is built around a heavy, accurate shot, high-end hockey IQ, and a knack for finding soft ice—traits that echo a young Filip Forsberg, whom he models his game after. While his defensive consistency and physical engagement are still developing, his upside as a power-play weapon and top-six scoring winger is undeniable. For a team like Chicago, hungry for dynamic offensive talent to complement its young core, Ihs-Wozniak could be a high-reward swing worth taking.
35. Nashville Predators- William Moore (C)- USDP/NTDP
The Nashville Predators should seriously consider drafting William Moore because he embodies the kind of cerebral, two-way center that fits their identity of structured, responsible hockey. A standout from the U.S. National Team Development Program, Moore surged in the second half of the 2024–25 season, finishing with 59 points in 64 games and tying for fifth in scoring at the U18 World Championship with 11 points in 7 games. His game is built on elite vision, smart distribution, and a knack for making subtle plays that tilt the ice in his team’s favor. While his skating and physicality are still developing, his ability to read the game, contribute on the penalty kill, and create offense without needing the spotlight makes him a high-upside, system-friendly pick. For a team like Nashville, which values hockey IQ and two-way reliability, Moore could be a long-term asset down the middle.
36. Philadelphia Flyers- Kurban Limatov (D)- MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)
The Philadelphia Flyers should consider drafting Kurban Limatov because he offers a compelling mix of size, mobility, and defensive upside that aligns with their long-term blue line needs. At 6’3″ and nearly 200 pounds, Limatov skates exceptionally well for his frame and has shown strong positional awareness and puck-moving ability with MHK Dynamo Moscow. His late-season surge, including a KHL debut, highlighted his conditioning and adaptability, while his aggressive yet composed style fits the Flyers’ gritty identity. Though his offensive ceiling is still developing, his physical tools and two-way instincts make him a high-upside project who could evolve into a reliable top-four defenseman. For a team with multiple early picks and a growing Russian core led by Matvei Michkov, Limatov could be both a cultural and tactical fit.
37. Washington Capitals (from BOS)- Ryder Lee (F)- Madison (NCAA)
The Washington Capitals should draft Ryder Lee because he’s a dynamic offensive catalyst with the kind of puck control and playmaking vision that can reinvigorate their forward pipeline. As the USHL Rookie of the Year with 68 points in 58 games for the Madison Capitols, Lee consistently created offense through slick dekes, smart positioning, and a deceptive release that made him a power-play threat. His 97th percentile NHL translatability and 92nd percentile puck possession metrics underscore his ability to drive play at the next level. While his defensive game is still maturing, his offensive instincts and ability to generate scoring chances out of broken plays make him a high-upside pick. For a team like Washington, looking to inject creativity and scoring depth into its next generation, Lee could be a cornerstone winger with top-six potential.
38 Seattle Kraken- Cameron Schmidt (RW)- Vancouver Giants (WHL)
The Seattle Kraken should draft Cameron Schmidt because he brings electrifying speed, elite scoring instincts, and a relentless motor—traits that could inject serious dynamism into their prospect pool. Despite standing just 5’7″, Schmidt lit up the WHL with 40 goals and 78 points in 61 games for the Vancouver Giants, showcasing a lethal shot and the ability to create offense at top speed. His performance at the U18 World Championship, where he helped Canada capture gold, further cemented his status as a big-game player. While his defensive game is still rounding out, his tenacity on the forecheck and ability to beat defenders wide make him a nightmare in transition. For a Kraken team still shaping its offensive identity, Schmidt offers top-six upside and power-play punch—plus the kind of underdog fire that can galvanize a locker room.
39. Buffalo Sabres- Shane Vansaghi (RW)- Michigan State University (NCAA)
The Buffalo Sabres should draft Shane Vansaghi because he brings a rare blend of physicality, energy, and untapped offensive potential that could round out their forward group with grit and versatility. At 6’2″, 216 pounds, Vansaghi plays a hard-nosed, power-forward style honed at Michigan State, where he carved out a middle-six role as one of the youngest players in the NCAA. Despite limited ice time, he showcased strong puck protection, smart off-puck movement, and a willingness to drive the net—traits that translate well to the NHL’s grind. His forechecking tenacity and board play make him a disruptive force, while his developing hands and vision hint at middle-six upside. For a Sabres team looking to add edge and depth to its forward corps, Vansaghi offers a high-motor, pro-ready toolkit that could thrive in a complementary role.
40. Philadelphia Flyers (from ANA)- Alexander Zharovsky (RW)- Tolpar Ufa (MHL)
The Philadelphia Flyers should draft Alexander Zharovsky because he offers a dazzling mix of creativity, deception, and offensive flair that could complement their emerging Russian core. A left-shot right wing from Tolpar Ufa, Zharovsky led his MHL team with 50 points in 45 games and earned a late-season call-up to the KHL, where he held his own in playoff action despite limited minutes. His puckhandling is elite—he lulls defenders with patience before exploding into space, creating high-danger chances with slick passes or quick releases. While his top-end speed and physical strength are still developing, his agility and hockey sense make him a constant threat. For a Flyers team already invested in Matvei Michkov, Zharovsky could be a stylistic and cultural fit, adding another layer of high-skill offense to their rebuild.
41. Montreal Canadiens (from PIT)- Mason West (F)- Fargo Force (USHL)
The Montreal Canadiens should draft Mason West because he offers a tantalizing mix of size, athleticism, and raw upside that could address their long-standing need for physical presence up front. Standing at 6’6″ and 215 pounds, West is a dual-sport athlete who recently committed fully to hockey after starring as a quarterback in high school football—a testament to his elite coordination and adaptability. Despite his towering frame, he skates fluidly and shows flashes of high-end vision and puck protection, tallying 49 points in 31 games at Edina High School before adding 9 points in 10 USHL games. While his game remains raw—particularly in terms of defensive consistency and physical engagement—his ceiling is immense. For a Canadiens team that was physically outmatched in the playoffs, West represents a long-term swing on a power forward who could evolve into a matchup nightmare if developed properly. In a draft class light on true unicorns, he might be their Hail Mary worth throwing.
42. New York Islanders- Cole McKinney (C)- USDP/NTDP
The New York Islanders should draft Cole McKinney because he embodies the kind of high-motor, two-way center who could thrive in their structured, defense-first system while adding much-needed offensive upside. A standout with the U.S. National Team Development Program, McKinney posted 61 points in 60 games and showcased elite playmaking, strong faceoff skills, and relentless forechecking. His hockey IQ and stickwork allow him to anticipate plays and create high-danger chances, while his defensive responsibility and penalty-killing prowess make him a coach’s dream. Though his skating explosiveness and physicality are still developing, his versatility and work ethic suggest he could become a reliable middle-six pivot. For a team like the Islanders, looking to inject youth without sacrificing identity, McKinney offers a seamless fit with long-term value.
43. New York Rangers (from UTA)- Charlie Thetheway (D)- USDP/NDTP
The New York Rangers should draft Charlie Trethewey because he brings a rare combination of physicality, mobility, and poise that could anchor their blue line for years to come. A 6’2″, 200-pound right-shot defenseman from the U.S. National Team Development Program, Trethewey plays with a mature edge—delivering punishing hits, clearing the crease with authority, and making smart, low-risk decisions under pressure. His four-way mobility allows him to close gaps quickly and transition play with confidence, while his improved puck management and booming point shot add offensive value. Though his lateral quickness and backward acceleration are still developing, his high-end motor and defensive reads make him a natural fit for the Rangers’ structured system. Trethewey could be a seamless heir to the team’s physical shutdown tradition, following the trade of Jacob Trouba.
44. Detroit Red Wings- Eddie Genborg (LW)- Lindkoping (SHL)
The Detroit Red Wings should draft Eddie Genborg because he embodies the kind of gritty, versatile winger who thrives in high-pressure, playoff-style hockey—something Detroit is building toward. At 6’2″, 205 pounds, Genborg plays a punishing, north-south game with relentless forechecking, strong board battles, and a net-front presence that wears down opponents. He led Linköping HC’s J20 squad in goals and held his own in the SHL, where he logged more games than any other U18 player—a testament to his maturity and coachability. While his offensive game is more meat-and-potatoes than highlight-reel, his ability to cycle, kill plays on the backcheck, and create chaos in the slot makes him a perfect fit for Detroit’s identity-driven rebuild. With his physical edge and developing offensive instincts, Genborg could become the kind of middle-six power forward who complements the Wings’ skill players and brings playoff grit when it matters most.
45. Philadelphia Flyers (from CBJ)- Will Horcoff (C)- Michigan (NCAA)
The Philadelphia Flyers should draft Will Horcoff because he brings a rare mix of size, physicality, and defensive reliability that fits seamlessly with their identity-driven rebuild. At 6’4″, Horcoff is a tenacious, net-front center who thrives in board battles, forechecking pressure, and defensive zone coverage—hallmarks of the Flyers’ traditional grit-and-grind ethos. A product of the USNTDP and now the University of Michigan, he’s shown steady growth, particularly in his ability to protect the puck, win faceoffs, and disrupt plays with an active stick. While his skating remains a work in progress, his elite NHL Combine performance—including a record-breaking long jump—signals untapped athletic upside. With Sean Couturier again, Horcoff could be the perfect replacement: a physically mature, defensively sound center who brings balance, leadership potential, and a pro-ready work ethic. He’s not flashy—but he’s Flyers hockey.
46. Utah Mammoth- Carter Amico (D)- USDP/NTDP
The Utah Hockey Club should draft Carter Amico because he offers a rare blend of size, mobility, and shutdown potential that could anchor their blue line for years. At 6’6″ and 234 pounds, Amico is a physically imposing right-shot defenseman who excels at closing gaps, clearing the crease, and delivering punishing hits without sacrificing positional discipline. Before a season-ending knee injury, he was rising fast with the USNTDP, showing improved puck-moving skills and surprising agility for his frame—particularly in transition and breakout scenarios. While his offensive upside may be limited, his defensive instincts, penalty-killing prowess, and ability to control the defensive zone make him a high-floor, low-risk pick. For a Utah team building from the back end out, Amico could be the kind of foundational piece that brings structure, edge, and long-term stability to their blue line.
47. Vancouver Canucks- Vaclav Nestrasil (RW)- Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)
The Vancouver Canucks should draft Václav Nestrašil because he offers a tantalizing mix of size, skill, and offensive creativity that could elevate their forward depth for years to come. Standing at 6’5″ and 190 pounds, the Czech-born right winger skates with surprising fluidity for his frame and excels at protecting the puck, threading passes through tight seams, and generating offense off the rush. He posted 42 points in 61 USHL games with Muskegon and added 13 points in 14 playoff games during their championship run, showcasing his ability to contribute in high-stakes moments. While his defensive consistency and strength in puck battles are still developing, his vision, reach, and playmaking instincts make him a high-upside swing. For a Canucks team seeking long-term scoring depth and size on the wing, Nestrašil could be a second-round gem with first-round potential.
48. Philadelphia Flyers (from CGY)- Nathan Behm (LW/RW)- Kamloops Blazers (WHL)
The Philadelphia Flyers should draft Nathan Behm because he combines NHL-ready size with a sniper’s touch and a gritty, north-south game that fits their identity. At 6’2″, 192 pounds, Behm exploded out of the gate with Kamloops in the WHL, scoring 22 points in his first 13 games and finishing the season with 66 points in 59 games despite playing on a struggling team. His shot is lethal—quick, accurate, and deceptively powerful—and he’s equally dangerous as a passer, threading pucks through tight seams with confidence. While his pace and defensive engagement can be inconsistent, his ability to find soft ice, battle in the corners, and finish from tough angles makes him a high-upside winger. For a Flyers team looking to add scoring depth and physical edge to its forward group, Behm offers a compelling blend of skill and snarl that could thrive in their system. Think of him as a potential middle-six finisher with room to grow into more.
49. Montreal Canadiens- Daniil Prokhorov (RW)- SKA St. Petersburg (MHL)
The Montreal Canadiens should draft Daniil Prokhorov because he’s a high-upside power forward with a rare combination of size, scoring instincts, and physical edge that could add a new dimension to their forward group. At 6’6″, 209 pounds, Prokhorov is a physically imposing winger who thrives on generating high-danger chances—averaging over four Grade “A” opportunities per game in the MHL. His shot is heavy and quick, and while his assist totals are modest, he’s shown flashes of playmaking that suggest untapped potential. Defensively, he’s a punishing hitter who can intimidate opponents, though he’ll need to refine his timing and positional awareness to avoid overcommitting. For a Canadiens team looking to add size and scoring depth to its wings, Prokhorov represents a bold swing: a raw but tantalizing prospect who, with proper development, could evolve into a middle-six wrecking ball with finishing touch. He’s not polished—but he’s the kind of bet that could pay off big.
50. New Jersey Devils- Benjamin Kevan (C)- Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL)
The New Jersey Devils should draft Benjamin Kevan because he’s a deceptive, high-IQ winger who thrives in transition and could add a layer of offensive creativity to their prospect pool. A standout with the Des Moines Buccaneers in the USHL, Kevan combines slick puckhandling, sharp vision, and a knack for exploiting defensive gaps—often hanging just outside the play before striking with speed and precision. His ability to manipulate defenders with subtle fakes and quick cuts makes him a dangerous playmaker, and his performance at the U18 World Championship, including a clutch overtime goal in the bronze medal game, showcased his poise under pressure. While his production dipped slightly this season, he’s become a more complete player, showing growth in his off-puck reads and defensive engagement. For a Devils team that values pace and puck movement, Kevan could be a smart, long-term investment as a middle-six winger with upside. Think of him as a stealth weapon—quiet until he isn’t.
51. Boston Bruins (from STL)- Viktor Klingsell (LW)- Skelleftea AIK (J20 Nationell)
The Boston Bruins should draft Viktor Klingsell because he’s a cerebral, pass-first winger whose playmaking instincts and pace-driven style could inject creativity into their aging forward core. A standout for Skellefteå AIK J20, Klingsell led Sweden in scoring at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and followed it up with a strong U18 Worlds, showcasing his elite vision, smooth skating, and ability to manipulate defenders with subtle fakes and quick decisions. Though he’s just 5’10”, his stocky frame and relentless motor make him tough to knock off the puck, and his ability to quarterback a power play from the flank adds special teams value. While he can drift to the perimeter at times, his upside as a dynamic playmaker is undeniable. For a Bruins team looking to retool with speed and skill, Klingsell could be a second-round steal with top-six potential. Think of him as a modern-day puck distributor with a bit of Bruins bite.
52. Minnesota Wild-Adam Benak (C)- Youngstown Phantoms (USHL)
The Minnesota Wild should draft Adam Benák because he’s a high-skill, high-motor forward whose elite skating and offensive instincts could inject creativity into their prospect pipeline. Though undersized at 5’7″, Benák has consistently defied expectations—dominating international play with Czechia and posting 59 points in 56 USHL games with Youngstown. His lateral agility, deceptive puckhandling, and ability to attack the middle of the ice make him a constant threat in transition. While his shift to wing in the USHL raised questions about his long-term position, his hockey IQ and compete level remain standout traits. For a Wild team that values pace, tenacity, and smart puck movement, Benák could be a second- or third-round steal with top-six upside if developed patiently. He’s the kind of bet that rewards bold drafting.
53. San Jose Sharks- Max Psenicka (D)-Portland Winterhawks (WHL)
The San Jose Sharks should draft Max Pšenička because he offers a rare blend of size, mobility, and defensive maturity that could solidify their blue line for the long haul. At 6’4″, the Czech-born right-shot defenseman made a seamless transition to North American hockey with the Portland Winterhawks, where he became a trusted top-pairing presence during their WHL playoff run. While his offensive numbers are modest, his value lies in his intelligent reads, physical edge, and ability to stabilize a pairing—traits that align with the Sharks’ need for dependable, shutdown defenders to complement their growing offensive core. With their forward core already set, Pšenička could be the kind of long-term, stay-at-home presence who brings balance and playoff grit to San Jose’s evolving identity. He’s not flashy—but he’s the kind of glue guy championship teams are built on.
54. Calgary Flames (from COL)- Jack Ivanovic (G)- Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
The Calgary Flames should draft Jack Ivankovic because he’s one of the most technically sound and mentally composed goaltenders in the 2025 class—an ideal fit for a team seeking long-term stability in net. Despite standing just 5’11”, Ivankovic’s elite positioning, rebound control, and calm under pressure have made him a standout with the Brampton Steelheads and on the international stage. He posted a stellar .961 save percentage while leading Canada to gold at the U18 World Championship, earning top goaltender honors in the process. His ability to read plays, stay square to shooters, and make difficult saves look routine has drawn comparisons to Juuse Saros. For Calgary, which has lacked a true homegrown goalie prospect since Miikka Kiprusoff’s era, Ivankovic represents a high-upside, technically refined netminder who could become a cornerstone with the right development path. He’s not the biggest—but he might be the smartest puck-stopper in the draft.
55. Nashville Predators (from TB)- Michael Svrcek (C/LW)- Brynas IF (J20 Nationell)
The Nashville Predators should draft Michal Svrcek because he’s a high-motor, versatile forward whose relentless pace and offensive instincts align perfectly with their structured, two-way identity. A standout for Brynäs IF in Sweden, Svrcek posted a point-per-game pace at the junior level and flashed NHL-caliber tools during international play, including a two-goal performance in the U18 World Championship bronze medal game. His game is built on speed, anticipation, and a willingness to attack high-danger areas—traits that make him effective in transition and on special teams. Though undersized at 5’10”, he compensates with elite compete level, smart puck retrieval, and a quick release that keeps defenders honest. For a Predators team that values work ethic and hockey IQ, Svrcek could be a middle-six spark plug with penalty-kill upside and the potential to grow into a reliable scoring threat. He’s the kind of player who wins coaches over—and playoff games too.
56. Tampa Bay Lightning (from LA)- Luca Romano (C)- Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
The Tampa Bay Lightning should draft Luca Romano because he brings a high-energy, goal-scoring toolkit that could inject youth and pace into their aging forward core. A right-shot center from the Kitchener Rangers, Romano doubled his offensive output in his second OHL season, finishing with 25 goals and 51 points in 67 games, plus 11 points in 16 playoff contests. He thrives in transition, using his strong skating, edge work, and puck-handling to create space and drive play. While not the flashiest prospect, his work ethic, physical engagement, and ability to win puck battles down low make him a versatile, coachable asset. For a Lightning team that excels at developing mid-round talent into NHL contributors, Romano could be a savvy second- or third-round pick with middle-six upside and special teams potential.
57. Seattle Kraken (from TOR)- Pyotr Andreyano (G)- Krasnaya Armiya (MHL)
The Seattle Kraken should draft Pyotr Andreyanov because he’s a technically refined, battle-tested goaltender with the poise and agility to become a long-term solution in net. Playing for Krasnaya Armiya in the MHL, Andreyanov posted a stellar 23-6-6 record and outperformed a Toronto Maple Leafs prospect to seize the starting role. At 6’2″, 207 pounds, he’s not the tallest goalie in the draft, but he compensates with sharp post play, quick lateral movement, and excellent pad control on low shots. His adventurous puck-handling adds a layer of unpredictability—sometimes risky, but often effective in breaking pressure. While he hasn’t yet debuted in the KHL, his expected promotion next season signals upward momentum. For a Kraken team still shaping its identity and prospect depth in goal, Andreyanov could be a smart mid-round swing with starter potential and a competitive edge that fits Seattle’s culture of resilience.
58. Vegas Golden Knights- Ethan Czata (C)- Niagara IceDogs (OHL)
The Vegas Golden Knights should draft Ethan Czata because he’s a smart, two-way center with the kind of hockey IQ and work ethic that fits seamlessly into their structured, playoff-tested system. At 6’1″, Czata posted 55 points in 68 games for the Niagara IceDogs, showing major growth in both offensive confidence and defensive reliability. He’s not flashy, but his game is built on anticipation, positioning, and making the right play—whether it’s a subtle pass to spring a breakout or a timely stick lift in the defensive zone. A trusted penalty killer and one of Niagara’s most consistent players, Czata thrives in the details that win games. For a Vegas team that values depth, responsibility, and players who can adapt to multiple roles, Czata could be a dependable middle-six pivot with long-term value. He’s the kind of glue guy who doesn’t just fill a lineup spot—he earns it.
59. Pittsburgh Penguins (from WSH)- LJ Mooney (RW)- USDP/NTDP
The Pittsburgh Penguins should draft L.J. Mooney because he’s a hometown sparkplug with elite pace, relentless energy, and the kind of offensive creativity that could electrify their next generation. A native of West Mifflin, PA and cousin of Logan Cooley, Mooney starred for the U.S. National U18 Team, where his explosive crossover speed, lateral agility, and fearless puck pursuit made him a constant threat in transition. Though undersized at 5’7″, he compensates with a high motor, deceptive hands, and a willingness to battle in high-traffic areas. His playmaking instincts shine on the power play, where he threads tight seams and forces defenders onto their heels. For a Penguins team in need of youthful energy and future top-nine skill, Mooney offers both local roots and dynamic upside—an undersized winger with the heart and tempo to make a big-league impact. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t just play fast—he thinks fast.
60. Anaheim Ducks (from WPG)- Peyton Kettles (D)- Swift Current Broncos (WHL)
The Anaheim Ducks should draft Peyton Kettles because he’s a towering, right-shot defenseman with shutdown instincts and the kind of steady, no-frills game that could anchor their blue line for years. At 6’5″, Kettles excels in transition defense—using his long reach and smart stick work to break up odd-man rushes and clog passing lanes with surgical precision. While his offensive game is still developing, he’s shown flashes of confidence moving the puck and isn’t afraid to jump into the play when the opportunity arises. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to log heavy minutes make him a coach’s dream in defensive situations. For a Ducks team looking to build a more structured, defensively sound core around their young talent, Kettles offers a long-term project with top-four potential and the physical tools to thrive in the Pacific Division grind. He may not dazzle—but he’ll deny.
61. Boston Bruins (from CAR)- Matthew Ward (F)- Red Deer Rebels (WHL)
The Boston Bruins should draft Matthew Ward because he’s a relentless, high-IQ forward whose playmaking vision and motor could inject energy and creativity into their aging forward corps. Though undersized at 5’8″, Ward plays with fearless intensity—driving into dirty areas, throwing hits, and battling along the boards like a player twice his size. He led the Swift Current Broncos with 57 points in 64 games during the 2021–22 WHL season and showcased his versatility with power-play and shorthanded goals. His edgework and puck control allow him to maneuver through traffic and create offense in tight spaces, while his defensive anticipation and forechecking pressure make him effective away from the puck. For a Bruins team that values grit, hockey sense, and two-way responsibility, Ward could be a late-round gem who brings bottom-six energy with middle-six upside—small in stature, but big in Bruins DNA.
62. Chicago Blackhawks (from DAL)- Vojtech Cihar (LW)- HC Energie Karlovy Vary (Czechia)
The Chicago Blackhawks should draft Vojtěch Čihař because he’s a versatile, high-compete forward who brings the kind of all-situations reliability and skating pop that fits perfectly alongside a young core like Connor Bedard’s. Čihař, a 6’1″ Czech winger, played meaningful minutes in the Czech Extraliga—an impressive feat for a U18 player—and showed his mettle internationally with standout performances at both the World Juniors and U18 Worlds. He’s not flashy, but he’s the kind of “Swiss Army knife” player who can slot in anywhere up front, kill penalties, drive play with speed, and make smart, simple decisions under pressure. His skating is his calling card—explosive, agile, and disruptive—and his physical edge and defensive awareness make him a coach’s favorite. For a rebuilding Blackhawks team looking to surround its stars with dependable, high-motor talent, Čihař could be a glue guy with long-term middle-six upside and playoff utility written all over him. Think Brandon Hagel, but with a Czech passport.
63. Toronto Maple Leafs (from FLA)- Kristian Epperson (LW)- Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
The Toronto Maple Leafs should draft Kristian Epperson because he’s a high-motor, two-way winger with underrated offensive instincts and a relentless work ethic—traits that align perfectly with Toronto’s need for depth and versatility on the wing. After going undrafted in 2024, Epperson exploded in the OHL with 80 points in 58 games for the Saginaw Spirit, thriving alongside top prospect Michael Misa and proving he can complement elite talent. His game is built on smart positioning, gritty net-front presence, and strong penalty-killing—he notched six shorthanded points this season. While his skating mechanics still need refinement, his hockey IQ, compete level, and ability to make plays in traffic make him a strong candidate for a middle-six role down the line. For a Leafs team with limited draft capital, Epperson could be a savvy second- or third-round swing with the potential to grow into a reliable, multi-situational forward. Think Zach Hyman-lite, with a chip on his shoulder.
64. New Jersey Devils (from EDM)- Theo Stockselius (F)- Djurgardens (J20 Nationell)
The New Jersey Devils should draft Theo Stockselius because he’s a cerebral, dual-threat center whose blend of size, vision, and offensive creativity could add a dynamic layer to their forward pipeline. At 6’3″, 196 pounds, Stockselius led Djurgårdens IF J20 with 51 points in 40 games and elevated his play in the postseason with 16 points in just nine playoff contests. His game is built on deceptive passing, smart off-puck movement, and a quick, accurate wrist shot that makes him dangerous both as a playmaker and a finisher. What sets him apart is his ability to manipulate defenders—dragging them wide to open lanes or threading passes through traffic with surgical precision. While he occasionally overhandles the puck and could use his frame more assertively, his high motor, skating agility, and two-way awareness make him a well-rounded prospect. For a Devils team that thrives on pace and puck movement, Stockselius could be a seamless fit—an intelligent, possession-driving center with top-six upside and the versatility to grow into multiple roles. He’s not just skilled—he’s strategic.
Round 3
65. Vancouver Canucks (from SJ)- Tomas Pobezal (C)- HK Nitra (Slovakia)
66. Chicago Blackhawks- Alexei Medvedev (G)- London Knights (OHL)
67. Nashville Predators- Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen (D)- Michigan (NCAA)
68. Philadelphia Flyers- Eric Nilson (C)- Djurgardens (J20 Nationell)
69. Boston Bruins- Max Psenicka (D)- Portland Winterhawks (WHL)
70. New York Rangers (from SEA)- Arvid Drott (RW)- Djurgardens (J20 Nationell)
71. Buffalo Sabres- Hayden Paupanekis (F)-Kelowna Rockets (WHL)
72. Anaheim Ducks- Harry Nansi (C)- Owen Sound Attack (OHL)
73. Pittsburgh Penguins- Jacob Rombach (D)- Lincoln Stars (USHL)
74. New York Islanders – Shamar Moses (RW)- North Bay Battalion (OHL)
75. Detroit Red Wings (from NYR)- Owen Conrad (D)- Charlottetown Checkers (QMJHL)
76. Detroit Red Wings- Gustav Hillstrom (C)- Brynas IF (J20 Nationell)
77. Columbus Blue Jackets- Alex Huang (D)- Chicoutimi Sagueneens (QMJHL)
78. Utah Mammoth- Tyler Hopkins (C)- Kingston Frontenacs (OHL)
79. Montreal Canadiens (from Vancouver)- Semyon Frolov (G)- Krylia (MHL)
80. Calgary Flames- Quinn Beauchesne (D)- Guelph Storm (OHL)
81. Montreal Canadiens- Zachary Morin (LW)- Saint Johns Sea Dogs (QMJHL)
82. Montreal Canadiens (from NJ)- Bruno Osmanis (RW)- IF Bjorkloven (J20 Nationell)
83. Edmonton Oilers (from STL) – Artyom Vilchinsky (D)- SKA-1946 (MHL)
84. Pittsburgh Penguins (from MIN) – Luka Radiojevic (D)-Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)
85. Pittsburgh Penguins (from OTT) – Viggo Nordlund (F)- Skelleftea AIK (J20 Nationell)
86. Toronto Maple Leafs (from COL) – David Bedkowski (D)- Owen Sound Attack (OHL)
87. Carolina Hurricanes (from TB) – Maxim Afafonov (D)- Tolpar Ufa (MHL)
88. Los Angeles Kings- Aiden Lane (RW)- Brampton Bulldogs (OHL)
89. New York Rangers (from TOR)- Ludvig Johnson (D)- EV Zug (NL)
90. New Jersey Devils (from VGK)- Filip Ekberg (LW)- Ottawa 67s (OHL)
91. Vegas Golden Knights (from WSH)- Emile Guite (LW)- Chicoutimi Sagueneens (QMJHL)
92. Winnipeg Jets- Sean Harnhill (D)- Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL)
93. Washington Capitals (from CAR)- Mace’o Phillips (D)- USDP/NTDP
94. Dallas Stars- Max Westergard (LW)- Frolunda HC (J20 Nationell)
95. Ottawa Senators (from FLA)- Philippe Veilleux (LW/RW)- Val-d’Or (QMJHL)
96. Dallas Stars (from EDM)- Jimmy Lombardi (C)- Flint Firebirds (OHL)
HockeywizScouts 