The final horn has sounded on the 2025 NHL Draft, injecting a fresh wave of talent into the league’s pipeline. From anticipated top selections to surprising steals later on, every team aimed to bolster their future. Now, it’s time to break down the results, assess key picks, and see how analysts graded each franchise’s performance. This article provides a comprehensive look at the notable selections and team evaluations, offering insights into the potential impact of these young players.
Following two days of selections from Los Angeles, attention quickly shifts from the draft floor to evaluating the choices made. Assessing a draft class right away is complex, with different experts weighing player potential, value at the draft slot, team needs, and overall talent acquisition differently. Below, we delve into how teams fared, highlighting significant picks and synthesizing various expert opinions on their outcomes.
Evaluating the 2025 NHL Draft Classes
Analyzing an entire draft class involves more than just the first-round pick; it’s about the cumulative talent added across all selections. Several teams were particularly lauded for their hauls this year, while others faced more skeptical reviews based on the perceived talent they secured.
Top Draft Classes: Who Excelled?
According to multiple analyses, a few teams clearly stood out, earning top marks for the players they drafted. The New York Islanders were frequently cited as having the premier draft, earning A+ grades from several outlets. Their success began with securing defenseman Matthew Schaefer first overall, seen as the consensus top prospect. Adding skilled winger Victor Eklund and physical defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson in the first round solidified their class, promising multiple potential NHL regulars, including a potential star in Schaefer.
The San Jose Sharks also received high praise, often earning A or A+ grades. Drafting center Michael Misa, considered the draft’s best all-around player and a future No. 1 center, was a foundational piece. Securing potential starting goalie Joshua Ravensbergen later in the first round, along with promising Day 2 picks like Simon Wang and Cole McKinney, significantly boosted their organizational depth.
The Philadelphia Flyers earned A or A- grades from various sources, particularly for their aggressive approach to adding talent. Landing dynamic winger Porter Martone early was seen as securing a top talent, despite some concerns about his pace. Trading up for center Jack Nesbitt addressed a positional need with a big, skilled player, though some questioned the move itself. Overall, their class was noted for adding significant size and skill.
Classes with Potential & Questions
Many teams fell into the solid B-range, acquiring promising players but with questions regarding consistency, reach, or overall depth compared to the top classes. The Nashville Predators received A or A- grades from some, liking their early picks like center Brady Martin, though others questioned Martin at pick five compared to available players. Their Day 2 picks were seen as adding potential regulars.
The Detroit Red Wings earned B+ grades, finding value in players like Carter Bear, who was ranked higher by some boards than where he was drafted. Adding skilled and competitive players like Bear suggests a strong fit for their organizational identity.
The Boston Bruins landed dynamic center James Hagens, seen by many as a steal falling to seventh overall. Despite some perceived risk, his high-end skating and skill earned Boston an A+ grade for the pick from one source, although their overall class grade was A- or B, reflecting Hagens’ importance relative to other selections.
Teams like the Chicago Blackhawks, Buffalo Sabres, and Pittsburgh Penguins also had classes in the B-range. Chicago added speed and size but some felt their high pick, Anton Frondell, was a slight reach despite his strong shot and skill. Buffalo addressed size on the blue line with Radim Mrtka but some analysts felt they missed an opportunity to add offensive playmakers needed by the team. Pittsburgh made some aggressive picks, like Benjamin Kindel at pick 11, adding high-end skill but facing questions about value relative to their draft slot.
Drafts Facing Scrutiny
Some teams received lower grades, either due to limited draft capital, perceived reaches, or selections seen as less likely to develop into NHL regulars. The Colorado Avalanche generally received the lowest grades, including a C- and D from different analyses. With only three picks, their selections, like defenseman Francesco Dell’Elce, were seen by some as lacking the high-end potential needed to significantly impact their prospect pool, which was already considered thin.
Other teams receiving C or C- grades included the Edmonton Oilers, Florida Panthers, and Toronto Maple Leafs, often attributed to having fewer early picks and drafting players seen as more likely to become bottom-six forwards rather than core pieces. The New Jersey Devils also received a C grade, facing questions about the consistency of their top forward prospects selected later in the draft.
Deep Dive: Analyzing Key Team Picks
Focusing on specific notable selections provides a clearer picture of each team’s immediate draft impact. Here’s a look at key picks mentioned across the reports and how they were evaluated:
Anaheim Ducks
Needing offensive firepower after trading Trevor Zegras, the Ducks selected forward Roger McQueen with the 10th pick. Despite playing only 17 WHL games due to injury, McQueen averaged a point per game, showcasing cleverness and stick skills. Evaluated as a potential first-line center, his upside earned the Ducks an A- grade for the pick from one source, though his injury history makes him a significant gamble, tying the fate of their draft class grade (B+) partly to his health.
Boston Bruins
The Bruins were thrilled to see center James Hagens slide to seventh overall. Ranked No. 4 on the final B/R board, Hagens was a point-per-game player at Boston College, known for elite speed, vision (26 assists in 37 games), and setting up teammates. Seen as a perfect fit for a rebuilding team needing high-end talent, his selection garnered an A+ pick grade, contributing significantly to Boston’s A- or B overall class grade.
Buffalo Sabres
Despite a desperate need for offense, especially after trading JJ Peterka, Buffalo used the ninth pick on defenseman Radim Mrtka. Mrtka is a large (6’6″), mobile defenseman with puck-moving ability, projecting as a potential top-four player. However, the decision was questioned given the availability of offensive playmakers, leading to a C grade for the pick from one source and a C+ overall class grade, reflecting the perceived mismatch between need and selection.
Calgary Flames
Calgary selected center Cole Reschny 18th overall. Reschny is noted as a dangerous offensive player who tallied 92 points in 62 WHL games. Praised for his passing and threat in open ice, he was seen as a good fit for the Flames, earning a B+ grade for the pick and class. Another pick, Cullen Potter (32nd overall), an ASU center, was highlighted for elite skating and skill, projecting as a potential middle-six winger.
Carolina Hurricanes
With the 49th pick (Round 2), Carolina selected center Charlie Cerrato. The 20-year-old Penn State product tallied 42 points in his freshman year, helping his team reach the Frozen Four. Offering a mix of offense and defensive strength, Cerrato was seen as a solid selection, contributing to Carolina’s B+ pick and class grades, despite some analyses noting the team took several potentially risky Russian prospects later.
Chicago Blackhawks
Chicago surprised many by taking center Anton Frondell third overall, earlier than expected by some. Frondell possesses impressive puck skills, dexterity, and a dangerous shot (potentially the draft’s best). While seen as a potential top-two line forward, his inconsistent season led some analysts to feel pick three was “a tad too high.” The selection earned a B- pick grade and a C+ overall class grade, viewed as a missed opportunity by some given other talent available, though the team focused on adding speed and athleticism.
Colorado Avalanche
Receiving low grades overall (C- and D), Colorado’s draft included defenseman Francesco Dell’Elce with the 77th pick (Round 3). Dell’Elce contributed 24 points in 40 games at UMass, showing hockey IQ, a solid shot, and good movement. While some viewed him as a strong two-way pick (B+ pick grade), other analyses saw little legitimate NHL potential in him or their other limited selections, leading to the critical assessment of their class.
Columbus Blue Jackets
Columbus made a strong pick at No. 14 with defenseman Jackson Smith. Ranked No. 6 on the final B/R board, Smith is described as a relentless, quick-skating defenseman and excellent passer (43 assists in 68 WHL games). Seen as a quality potential top-four defenseman and a great fit alongside Zach Werenski, his selection earned an A+ pick grade, contributing to their A- class grade, despite one analysis questioning the pick of goalie Pyotr Andreyanov (No. 20) due to size concerns.
Dallas Stars
Dallas’s first pick came late in the third round at No. 94, where they selected right wing Cameron Schmidt. Despite being undersized, Schmidt recorded 78 points in 61 WHL games, showcasing high hockey IQ, impressive footwork, and creativity. Viewed as a talented but risky swing, his selection was graded A-, contributing to the Stars’ B+ class grade, who also liked goalie Mans Goos later in the draft.
Detroit Red Wings
Detroit secured center Carter Bear at No. 13, seen as a steal by some as he was ranked No. 7 on the final B/R board. Bear tallied 82 points in the WHL, recognized as a standout playmaker with grit and relentless drive. Seen as exactly the type of player needed by Detroit, his selection was graded A+, helping earn Detroit a B+ overall class grade which also liked other early picks like Eddie Genborg and goalie Michal Pradel.
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers didn’t pick until the third round, selecting left wing Tommy Lafrenier at No. 68. Lafrenier had 56 points in 68 games, second-most among WHL rookies. While undersized, he’s a quick skater with strong awareness and defensive turnover generation ability. Seen as a decent prospect despite needing size, their limited draft capital resulted in a C class grade, with prospects seen as unlikely realistic NHL players by some.
Florida Panthers
Coming off Stanley Cup wins, Florida’s six picks included right wing Shamar Moses at No. 129. Moses had 48 points in 61 OHL games, developing impressive passing and awareness. Seen as a relentless player who could contribute in a few years, Florida’s late start and limited picks resulted in a C class grade, with players fitting their style but not considered top prospects.
Los Angeles Kings
Los Angeles added depth, including defenseman Henry Brzustewicz at pick 31 (Round 1). A sharp riser, Brzustewicz is a tall, mobile right-shot defenseman with skill and creativity. While some saw his first-round selection as unexpected, he’s viewed as having a good chance to become a regular defenseman. Their maneuvering earned them a B class grade for adding depth.
Minnesota Wild
Selecting defenseman Theodor Hallquisth with the 52nd pick (Round 2), Minnesota added a versatile player with two-way abilities who had 22 points in 41 games in Sweden. Seen as having potential with development, he’s a key piece in a class that also includes players with translation concerns, resulting in a B- class grade.
Montreal Canadiens
Montreal selected right wing Alexander Zharkovsky at No. 34 (Round 2). Although undersized, Zharkovsky is a quick skater with impressive stick skills, tallying 50 points in 45 games in the MHL. Seen as having high skill upside and potential to contribute significantly, he is a key prospect in a class that also features other potential regulars like Hayden Paupanekis and Bryce Pickford, contributing to Montreal’s B+ class grade.
Nashville Predators
The Predators boosted their offense with center Brady Martin at No. 5. Martin has a high hockey IQ and relentless effort, contributing 72 points in 57 OHL games with strong playmaking tools. Also possessing strong defensive skills, he projects as a potential top-six forward with elite compete. While some questioned his draft spot (C+ pick grade), others gave the overall class A or A- grades, liking later picks and expecting multiple future regulars.
New Jersey Devils
With the 63rd pick (Round 2), New Jersey selected right wing Ben Kevan. Despite a dip in production, Kevan is seen as a solid two-way player. However, their class received a C grade, starting late and featuring talented but inconsistent forwards, leading to uncertainty about producing a consistent NHL regular.
New York Islanders
Holding the first pick for the first time since 2009, the Islanders made the expected selection of defenseman Matthew Schaefer. Lauded for outstanding speed, open-ice play, high hockey IQ, and developing offense, he fulfills their need for a defenseman with limitless potential (A+ pick grade). Complementary first-round picks in winger Victor Eklund (A pick grade) and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson (A- pick grade) solidified what was widely considered the “Best Draft” and earned them unanimous A+ class grades.
New York Rangers
With the 43rd pick (Round 2), the Rangers selected center Malcolm Spence. A consensus first-round projection who fell, Spence had 73 points in 65 OHL games. Seen as a potential middle-six winger with significant upside, he’s a key prospect for a team potentially emphasizing youth. Despite the value in getting him later, their class received a C+ grade with few other exciting picks noted by some analysts.
Ottawa Senators
Ottawa selected defenseman Logan Hensler 23rd overall. Hensler possesses solid stick work and is a quick skater but needs to limit turnovers in the defensive zone. Finishing his first year at the University of Wisconsin, he projects as a potential fourth or fifth defenseman. His selection contributes to Ottawa’s B class grade, highlighting potential but uncertainty among other picks.
Philadelphia Flyers
The Flyers acquired right wing Porter Martone with the sixth pick, considered an absolute steal by some, as he was ranked No. 3 on the final B/R board. Martone has incredible offensive skill, tallying 98 points in 57 OHL games. While his tendency to hover was a minor concern, his size and skill combination is elite. This pick, earning a B+ grade, combined with trading up for center Jack Nesbitt (B grade) defined their A or A- graded class focused on adding size and skill.
Pittsburgh Penguins
Pittsburgh’s selection of right wing Benjamin Kindel at No. 11 was somewhat surprising, as he was projected later. Kindel possesses top-notch creativity and tallied 99 points in 65 WHL games. Despite questions about his size and elite talent level at this spot (C pick grade), he has significant raw skill. Their class, earning a B+ grade, added skill early and size/two-way play later, projecting 2-3 potential NHL players.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks landed center Michael Misa with the second overall pick, widely considered the draft’s best all-around player. Misa dominated the OHL with 134 points in 65 games, showcasing a relentless motor, advanced IQ, elite stick skills, and playmaking. Projecting as a star No. 1 center expected to contribute immediately, his A- pick grade set the stage for San Jose’s A or A+ class, further bolstered by selecting high-potential goalie Joshua Ravensbergen (A- pick grade) at pick 30.
Seattle Kraken
Seattle selected center Jake O’Brien eighth overall, recognized as one of the top talents available. O’Brien had 98 points in 66 OHL games, excelling with high-end patience, vision, and skill. Seen as a high-quality top-six forward whose playmaking should translate well, his selection earned a B+ pick grade. Day 2 picks like Blake Fiddler (despite character concerns) solidified Seattle’s A- class grade.
St. Louis Blues
The Blues made a strong pick at No. 19 with right wing Justin Carbonneau. A sensational playmaker with great puck vision, Carbonneau tallied 89 points in 62 QMJHL games. While he occasionally shows a tendency to do too much himself, he is seen as a potential heavy second-line winger. His pick largely defined St. Louis’s A- class grade, given their limited draft capital.
Tampa Bay Lightning
With the 56th pick (Round 2), Tampa Bay selected center Ethan Czata. Czata had 55 points in 68 OHL games, noted for offensive ability complemented by defensive closing speed and aggression. Projecting as a unique potential bottom-six forward, his selection anchored a respectable B- class grade given Tampa’s late start and limited picks.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Toronto selected center Tinus Luc Koblar with the 64th pick (Round 2). The 17-year-old Norwegian is a strong playmaker and puck handler, although he needs to improve his skating. Seen as a potential long-term prospect with good game sense, he’s a key piece in a class receiving a C grade due to few picks and limited perceived likelihood of players becoming full-time regulars immediately.
Utah Mammoth
Utah selected center Caleb Desnoyers fourth overall. Desnoyers put up 84 points in 56 QMJHL games, known for skilled puck handling, high hockey IQ, and strength in open ice. While seen by some as a slight reach at pick four, he checks boxes as a complete center prospect with a physical edge and high effort. Projecting as a potential No. 1 or No. 2 center (A- pick grade), he is the cornerstone of Utah’s B+ class grade, which also added three quality prospects on Day 2.
Vancouver Canucks
With the 15th pick, Vancouver selected center Braeden Cootes. Despite being 6 feet tall, Cootes’ speed and energy challenge defenses (63 points in 60 WHL games). Also dominating internationally (12 points in 7 games), he was seen as the best possible pick given the team’s needs for centers. Projecting as a potential second-line center (A- pick grade), he leads a class receiving a B- grade, with some analysts lukewarm on their Day 2 selections.
Vegas Golden Knights
With the 85th pick (Round 3), Vegas selected forward Mateo Nobert. Nobert recorded 67 points in 57 QMJHL games, praised as a highly skilled playmaker with great vision. While still developing, he projects as a strong prospect. Their class grade (B) hinges somewhat on players like Jakob Ihs-Wozniak (Round 1, pick 26) finding consistency.
Washington Capitals
Washington selected left wing Lyden Lakovic at No. 27 (Round 1). Lakovic had 58 points in 47 WHL games, noted for a strong shot and mobility, needing more physicality to reach his potential. Seen as a worthy gamble, he’s part of a class earning a B grade, which also includes potential third-line center Milton Gastrin and favored prospect Maxim Schafer.
Winnipeg Jets
The Jets bolstered their blue line with defenseman Sascha Boumedienne at No. 28 (Round 1). Likely two to three years away from the NHL, Boumedienne possesses a lethal slap shot, high IQ, and excellent passing vision. While needing defensive zone improvement, he’s a promising long-term piece (B- pick grade). Their class also received a B- grade, with concerns about some later picks reaching NHL regular status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the top few picks in the 2025 NHL Draft and how were they scouted?
The 2025 NHL Draft saw defenseman Matthew Schaefer selected first overall by the Islanders, widely considered the clear top prospect known for dynamic two-way play, powerful skating, and high hockey IQ. At second, the Sharks took center Michael Misa, an exceptional-status player praised as the draft’s best all-around talent with elite skill, vision, and a relentless motor. The Blackhawks drafted center Anton Frondell third, noted for significant skill and a strong shot, though some analysts felt this was earlier than expected. Utah followed at pick four with center Caleb Desnoyers, described as a complete, two-way player who checks every box for an NHL center.
Which teams received the highest and lowest grades for their 2025 draft classes?
Based on various analyses of the talent acquired, the New York Islanders consistently received A+ grades, earning praise for securing consensus top pick Matthew Schaefer and adding other high-potential players like Victor Eklund and Kashawn Aitcheson in the first round. The San Jose Sharks and Philadelphia Flyers also earned high marks (A or A-), lauded for adding foundational pieces like Michael Misa and Porter Martone. Conversely, the Colorado Avalanche received the lowest grades (C- or D), primarily due to having limited draft picks and analysts viewing their selections, including Francesco Dell’Elce, as having less legitimate NHL potential compared to other prospects.
How did highly-ranked players like James Hagens and Porter Martone fare in the draft?
Center James Hagens, ranked No. 4 on one final board, surprisingly fell to the Boston Bruins at pick seven. Seen as a steal, he earned high praise for his elite skating, skill, and vision, projecting as a dynamic top-six forward. Right wing Porter Martone, ranked No. 3 by one source, was taken by the Philadelphia Flyers at pick six. Martone was considered one of the draft’s most skilled wingers, with his combination of size and offensive ability making him a significant addition despite minor concerns about his pace. Both players were viewed as excellent value selections relative to their pre-draft rankings.
Overall, the 2025 NHL Draft appears to have injected significant high-end talent into the league, particularly at the top of the first round. While some classes stood out with multiple promising selections, others focused on specific needs or took high-upside gambles. The true impact of these picks will unfold over the coming years as these young players develop, but this analysis provides an early look at how each team’s draft performance was perceived immediately following the selections.
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