Early 2025 NHL Mock Draft Predicts Top prospects
With the NHL Trade Deadline in the rearview mirror, attention is already turning to the future of the league. A recent mock draft projects the potential landing spots for the top prospects of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, highlighting a blend of talent from various leagues.
Hear’s a breakdown of the top 15 picks:
Top 10 Mock Draft Picks
- San Jose Sharks: Matthew schaefer, LHD (erie otters, OHL)
- Chicago Blackhawks: Michael Misa, C/LW (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)
- Nashville Predators: James Hagens, C (Boston College, NCAA)
- Buffalo Sabres: Porter Martone, RW (Brampton Steelheads, OHL)
- seattle Kraken: Anton Frondell, C/RW (Djurgardens, Allsvenskan)
- Pittsburgh Penguins: Caleb Desnoyers, C (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL)
- Philadelphia Flyers: Roger mcqueen,C (Brandon Wheat Kings,WHL)
- Anaheim Ducks: Victor Eklund, RW (Djurgardens, Allsvenskan)
- Boston Bruins: Jackson Smith, LHD (Tri-City Americans, WHL)
- Detroit Red Wings: Jake O’Brien, C (Brantford Bulldogs, OHL)
Schaefer is considered the top prospect and a perfect fit for the Sharks’ defensive needs. Scouts praise his hockey IQ, skill, and comparisons to Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes in puck movement and decision-making. His 1-on-1 defending is strong, and he maintains notable analytics despite heavy ice time.
Misa, a potential linemate for Connor Bedard, is lauded for his extraordinary goal-scoring ability and game-changing potential. His versatility to play both center and wing makes him a valuable asset.
Hagens is a smart, two-way player with the potential to be a No. 1 center. His adaptability and all-around game make him a key piece for the Predators’ future.
Martone, a skilled and powerful player, offers a blend of scoring and physical play. He is projected as a future top-six forward who can both finish plays and contribute physically.
Frondell’s versatility and impressive offensive output in the Swedish Allsvenskan make him a compelling pick. His shot release and puck-attacking abilities have elevated him back into top-five consideration after an injury setback.
Desnoyers is a smart, physical player good at playmaking, who consistently excels in all three zones, making him a reliable middle-six center.
McQueen’s combination of size at 6-foot-5,skill,and hockey sense is highly valued. Scouts are eager to see his agility improve in high-pressure situations.
Eklund’s strong World Juniors performance and high productivity in sweden’s second-tier league highlight his offensive capabilities and solid play away from the puck.
Smith is considered a top defensive prospect, praised for his physicality, skating ability, and hockey sense, projecting him as a top-four defenseman.
O’Brien’s consistency and hockey IQ stand out, making him effective in all three zones. His work ethic and ability to impact shifts will be valuable assets.
Picks 11-15
- New York islanders: Carter Bear, C/LW (Everett Silvertips)
- Utah Hockey Club: Radim Mrtka, RHD (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL)
- Montreal Canadiens: Lynden Lakovic, LW (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL)
- St. Louis Blues: Justin Carbonneau, RW (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL)
- [Team Name Missing From Article]: [Player Name Missing From Article], [Position] ([Team, League])
Note: The NHL standings are fluid, and team needs can shift rapidly, making mock drafts speculative, especially this far in advance of the actual draft.
NHL Mock Draft 1.0: Potential First-Round Picks for 2025
As the 2024-25 NHL season progresses, attention is turning to the future stars of the league. Here’s a look at potential first-round picks,highlighting their strengths and what they could bring to their respective teams. This mock draft focuses on identifying promising talents and fitting them into teams that could benefit most from their skillset.
Early Picks: Penguins Eye Defensive Reinforcement
The Pittsburgh Penguins, selecting 15th overall (via the New York Rangers), could target Blake fiddler, a right-handed defenseman from the Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL). At 6-foot-4, fiddler is a physically imposing defender known for clearing the net and pushing opponents to the perimeter. Averaging around 22 minutes per game, he also demonstrates puck-handling skills.
Mid-Round Gems: canadiens Aim High, Senators Prioritize Defense
Further down the draft, with the 18th pick, the Montreal Canadiens (via the Calgary Flames) might take a chance on Ivan Ryabkin, a center from the Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL). Ryabkin, once projected as a top-five pick, has seen his stock fall. However, his recent performance in the USHL, showcasing a lethal shot, could entice the Canadiens to bet on his raw talent.
The Ottawa Senators, at pick No. 19, could select Logan Hensler, a right-handed defenseman from the University of Wisconsin (NCAA). Hensler’s strength lies in his defensive prowess, excelling at shutting down opponents and limiting scoring chances. Though lacking in offensive flash,his defensive capabilities and competitiveness make him an appealing prospect.
Later Round Opportunities: Blue Jackets Bolster Goaltending, Flames Find Grit
With two picks in the round, the Columbus Blue Jackets could focus on addressing different needs.At pick No. 17, they might select Braeden Cootes, a center from the Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL), known for his relentless puck pursuit and playmaking abilities. Later, at No. 21 (via the Minnesota Wild), they could target Joshua Ravensbergen, a towering 6-foot-5 goaltender from the Prince George Cougars, addressing potential uncertainties in their goaltending future.
The Calgary Flames, picking 20th, could find a fan favorite in Brady Martin from the Sarnia Sting (OHL). Martin is a hardworking player known for both scoring and physicality, projected to reach 69 points and 69 penalty minutes. While not a primary play-driver,his willingness to do the “dirty work” could complement the team’s top scorers.
More Potential Picks and Team Fits
- Vancouver canucks (16th): Malcolm Spence (LW,Erie Otters,OHL) – A physical player with scoring touch.
- Los Angeles Kings (22nd): Kawshawn Aitcheson (LHD, Barrie Colts, OHL) – A hard-hitting, smooth-skating defenseman.
- philadelphia Flyers (23rd): Carter Reid (LHD, Mount St.Charles Academy, USHS) - A versatile player with a strong three-zone game.
- Philadelphia Flyers (24th, via Edmonton Oilers): Benjamin Kindel (RW, Calgary Hitmen, WHL) – A skilled shooter and playmaker.
- Nashville Predators (25th, from Tampa Bay Lightning): Jack Murtagh (C/LW, USNTDP) – A skilled puck handler with a good shot.
- Carolina Hurricanes (26th): Cameron Schmidt (RW,Vancouver Giants,WHL) – A pure offensive forward with speed.
- Chicago Blackhawks (27th, via Toronto Maple Leafs): Bill Zonnon (LW, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL) – Energetic playmaker and shooter.
- San Jose Sharks (28th, via Dallas Stars): Cullen Potter (LW, Arizona State Univ., NCAA) – Skilled forward.
- Calgary Flames (29th, via Florida Panthers): Nathan Behm (RW, Kamloops Blazers, WHL) – Improving goal scorer.
- Nashville Predators (30th,via vegas Golden Knights): Cole Reschny (C,Victoria Royals,WHL) - Playmaker with potential.
This mock draft provides a glimpse into the potential future of the NHL, highlighting players with diverse skillsets and potential to make an impact on their respective teams.
Top NHL Draft Prospects: Jets Eye Defensive Strength, Capitals Seek Size Up Front
Recent projections suggest the Winnipeg Jets and Washington Capitals are poised to bolster their ranks with strategic selections in the upcoming NHL draft. The Jets, rich in forward prospects, are reportedly eyeing a physically imposing and skilled defenseman, while the Capitals are keen on securing a sizable and versatile center.
Winnipeg Jets: Carter Amico, a Right-Handed Defenseman from the US National Team Growth Program (USNTDP), is on the Jets’ radar. Despite a season cut short by injury, Amico’s performance in 13 games showcased a promising blend of size, mobility, and puck-handling skills.Known for his physicality and strong defensive play, Amico’s absence was notably felt by the USNTDP. The Jets may capitalize on his potentially lower draft stock due to the injury.
Washington Capitals: Jack Nesbitt, a Center playing for the Windsor spitfires in the OHL, is a potential pick for the Capitals. At 6-foot-4,Nesbitt is recognized for his hockey IQ,two-way game,and offensive capabilities. His prowess on the power play, coupled with a strong shot and solid skating for his size, make him an attractive prospect. Following their previous success with the 6-foot-5 Ilya Protas, the Capitals might again look to Windsor for size and skill.
**What specific qualities of Matthew SchaeferS game draw comparisons to Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes?**
Early 2025 NHL Mock Draft prospects: Q&A
This Q&A section addresses key points about the NHL draft prospects mentioned in the articles, providing insights and clarifying potential team strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is considered the top prospect in the 2025 NHL Draft?
Matthew Schaefer, a left-handed defenseman from the Erie Otters (OHL), is widely considered the top prospect in the early mock drafts. Scouts compare his puck movement and decision-making to Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes.
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Which team is most likely to draft Matthew Schaefer?
The San Jose Sharks are projected to draft matthew Schaefer with their first overall pick.
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What are some key strengths of Michael Misa, the potential second overall pick?
Michael Misa, a center/left-wing from the Saginaw Spirit (OHL), is praised for his extraordinary goal-scoring ability and game-changing potential. His versatility to play both center and wing makes him a valuable asset.
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which team is looking for a defenseman and where is the player from?
The Winnipeg jets are reportedly eyeing Carter Amico, a right-handed defenseman from the US National Team Growth Program (USNTDP).
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Which team is looking for a big center and where is the player from?
The Washington Capitals are reportedly eyeing Jack Nesbitt,a center playing for the Windsor Spitfires in the OHL,is a potential pick for the Capitals.
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How do mock drafts this early hold up?
Mock drafts this far in advance are speculative. Player performances, injuries, and team needs can change significantly.
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Which team is the missing team with the missing player?
The missing team is not mentioned in any of the articles. The player’s name and position are also missing.
Stay tuned for updates as the NHL season progresses, and these prospects continue to develop. The draft is always full of surprises!
