The 2025 NHL Draft has begun, and The Athletic is providing extensive live coverage. Welcome to my detailed analysis of the first round, where I will break down each pick and evaluate the draft classes of all 32 NHL teams. Over the next two days, I will also highlight the top prospects available as we transition into Round 2, which starts tomorrow.
This analysis is the culmination of a year filled with travel, video assessments, phone calls, and texts. It reflects my educated perspective on each team's selections, taking into account both my own evaluations and the players' consensus expected draft ranges. It's important to note that this review focuses on how each team performed relative to their draft positions and the number of selections made, rather than the overall value they received from their picks. Teams with higher average picks or more selections do not automatically receive higher grades, just as those with fewer picks do not necessarily receive lower grades. Trades are not considered in this analysis; the focus remains purely on the picks themselves.
This analysis categorizes the draft results into four distinct tiers:
Winners: Teams that excelled by making strong selections where they picked. Overtime Winners: Teams that performed well with their selections, even if they didn't choose the exact players I would have. Overtime Losers: Teams that could have improved their selections but may still achieve passing grades in the future. Losers: Teams that are likely to underperform based on their selections.Pick No. 1: Matthew Schaefer
My Ranking: No. 1
Pick No. 16: Victor Eklund
My Ranking: No. 8
Pick No. 17: Kashawn Aitcheson
My Ranking: No. 13
This draft will be remembered as a pivotal moment for the New York Islanders. They secured the best prospect in the draft, along with two top defensemen and three highly competitive players. Schaefer, the consensus top prospect since the CHL USA Prospects Challenge, solidified his status throughout the OHL season and the World Juniors, despite a late injury. The Islanders made a wise choice by selecting Schaefer over local talent James Hagens, who was also considered.
Moreover, the selections of Eklund and Aitcheson were excellent. Eklund, who fell to No. 16, was regarded as the best player available at that point. His competitive nature and scoring ability will resonate with Islanders fans. Aitcheson, a formidable and competitive defenseman, further strengthens their roster, suggesting a bright future for the franchise.
Boston BruinsPick No. 7: James Hagens
My Ranking: No. 3
The Boston Bruins capitalized on the draft lottery's outcome by selecting Hagens, a player I believe possesses star potential. Although he was not projected as a top-five pick, his talent is undeniable. The Bruins are entering a new phase, and adding a premium prospect like Hagens, who can excel as a center, is crucial for their future.
St. Louis BluesPick No. 19: Justin Carbonneau
My Ranking: No. 12
Carbonneau distinguishes himself as one of the top forwards from the QMJHL, boasting a strong shot and significant potential. Despite some questions regarding his skating and consistency, I believe he has the capability to become a 30-goal scorer in the NHL.
Pick No. 5: Brady Martin
My Ranking: No. 10
Pick No. 21: Cameron Reid
My Ranking: No. 19
Pick No. 26: Ryker Lee
My Ranking: No. 24
The Nashville Predators made a commendable selection in choosing Martin, a fierce competitor known for his unique playing style. Although they passed on other talented prospects, their picks demonstrate a commitment to building a competitive roster. Reid and Lee are also solid additions, enhancing their defensive prospects for the future.
Pick No. 31: Henry Brzustewicz
My Ranking: No. 51
The Los Angeles Kings reached with their selection of Brzustewicz at No. 31. While he may fit within the range, I believe other prospects would have been a better fit. His performance and decision-making still need refinement, raising concerns about his long-term potential.
As we transition into Day 2 of the draft, several talented players remain available:
Malcolm Spence, LW, 6-foot-1 (Erie Otters): A hardworking player who shows promise as a competitive forward. Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, RW, 6-foot-2.25 (Lulea HF): A skilled forward with potential who needs to show more consistency. Milton Gastrin, C, 6-foot-0.75 (MoDo): A strong two-way player with leadership qualities. Blake Fiddler, RHD, 6-foot-4.5 (Edmonton Oil Kings): A promising defenseman with good defensive skills. William Moore, C, 6-foot-2.25 (U.S. NTDP): A skillful center with potential to develop into a valuable NHL player.Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to cover the 2025 NHL Draft and its implications for each team's future.
