2025 NHL Draft Predictions: Who Will Be the Top Picks?

2025 NHL Draft Lottery Predictions: First 16 Picks

Following the highly anticipated NHL Draft Lottery on Monday, NHL.com deputy managing editor Adam Kimelman and senior draft writer Mike G. Morreale have shared their insights regarding the potential outcomes for the first 16 selections of the 2025 Upper Deck NHL Draft. Notably, the New York Islanders emerged as the winners of the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery, and both experts predict that they will utilize their top pick to select defenseman Matthew Schaefer from Erie in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).

Additionally, they believe that the San Jose Sharks will opt for center Michael Misa from Saginaw, also of the OHL, with the second overall selection. However, their opinions start to diverge significantly regarding the subsequent picks. The 2025 draft is scheduled to take place at L.A. Live's Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with the first round commencing on June 27 at 7 p.m. ET, broadcasted on ESPN, ESPN+, SN, and TVAS. Rounds 2-7 will follow on June 28 at Noon ET, also available on NHLN and ESPN+.

Draft Lottery Format and Team Participation

The lottery was contested by the 16 teams that missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The remaining teams were arranged based on their standings in the NHL. The outcomes of the Stanley Cup Playoffs will ultimately determine the positions for picks 17-32.

Projected Top Picks for the 2025 NHL Draft

Kimelman predicts: Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL) - Regarded as the consensus top player in the draft, Schaefer possesses the potential to be a No. 1 defenseman capable of excelling in all situations. Although he has been sidelined since December 30 due to surgery for a broken clavicle, his impressive performance early in the season has solidified his position at the top of this year’s draft class. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 183 pounds, Schaefer is an elite skater with a dynamic offensive game and the physicality to handle defensive responsibilities.

Morreale agrees: Matthew Schaefer is an exceptional talent who can contribute on both special teams and even-strength play. Despite his injury, the Islanders should not hesitate to take him first overall, especially given their need for a high-caliber defenseman in their prospect pool.

Kimelman states: Michael Misa, C, Saginaw (OHL) - Misa, at 6-1 and 184 pounds, has been compared to NHL superstar John Tavares for his remarkable skill and hockey IQ. The 18-year-old led the Canadian Hockey League with a staggering 134 points (62 goals, 72 assists) in just 65 games, showcasing his strong skating ability, vision, and offensive creativity.

Morreale concurs: Michael Misa has been a standout player since entering the OHL as a 15-year-old, boasting impressive statistics that include 46 multipoint games. His ability to excel in clutch situations and win face-offs makes him a valuable asset for the Sharks moving forward.

Kimelman predicts: Jake O'Brien, C, Brantford (OHL) - O'Brien, standing 6-2 and weighing 172 pounds, made significant strides in the latter half of the season, showcasing his poise, vision, and playmaking skills. As the Blackhawks aim to strengthen their center depth, O'Brien’s potential as a top-two center alongside Connor Bedard is exciting.

Morreale suggests: James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA) - Hagens, smaller at 5-10 and 177 pounds, excelled at the World Juniors and displayed competitiveness and a commitment to defensive play during his freshman year, making him a strong candidate for the Blackhawks.

Kimelman forecasts: Anton Frondell, C, Djurgarden (SWE-2) - Frondell, who stands at 6-1 and weighs 198 pounds, possesses elite offensive skills and could potentially become a winger. His ability to forecheck and physical play make him a desirable pick.

Morreale opts for: Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton (QMJHL) - Desnoyers, at 6-1 and 178 pounds, is known for his tenacity and scoring ability, having led the QMJHL playoffs in points.

Kimelman selects: James Hagens - Hagens could be the franchise center the Predators have been searching for. He has shone against older competition and demonstrated his scoring ability at the World Juniors.

Morreale suggests: Jake O'Brien - O'Brien's impressive stats as a rookie in the OHL make him a strong candidate for the Predators.

Kimelman: Roger McQueen, C, Brandon (WHL) - McQueen is a physically imposing player at 6-5, 197 pounds, and could become a vital center for the Flyers.

Morreale: Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL) - Aitcheson's physicality and offensive flair make him an appealing choice for Philadelphia.

Kimelman: Porter Martone, RW, Brampton (OHL) - Martone’s physical style and offensive production draw comparisons to notable NHL players.

Morreale agrees: Porter Martone has proven his scoring ability and could fill a much-needed role for the Bruins.

Kimelman: Caleb Desnoyers - Known for his high-skill offensive game, Desnoyers could further enhance Seattle’s roster.

Morreale: Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL) - Mrtka’s size and hockey sense make him a valuable asset on the blue line.

Kimelman: Radim Mrtka - Mrtka’s outstanding skating and puck-moving ability could complement the Sabres' young defensive corps.

Morreale: Anton Frondell - Frondell’s scoring touch and development in Sweden make him an intriguing option for Buffalo.

Kimelman: Victor Eklund, RW, Djurgarden (SWE-2) - Eklund has excelled against older competition, showcasing his scoring ability.

Morreale: Jack Nesbitt, C, Windsor (OHL) - Nesbitt’s size and production are appealing for the Ducks.

Kimelman: Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL) - Smith’s ability to transition and play smart hockey is well-suited for the Penguins' system.

Morreale: Brady Martin, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL) - Martin’s toughness and scoring ability make him a strong candidate.

Kimelman: Jack Nesbitt - The Rangers require youth in the center position, and Nesbitt fits the mold.

Morreale: Roger McQueen - McQueen’s size and skill make him a potential steal.

Kimelman: Carter Bear, LW, Everett (WHL) - Bear’s scoring ability and work ethic make him a desirable pick.

Morreale: Victor Eklund - Eklund’s skill and perseverance are notable traits.

Kimelman: Lynden Lakovic, LW, Moose Jaw (WHL) - Lakovic’s skating and shot make him a strong candidate for Columbus.

Morreale: Jackson Smith - Smith’s speed and movement provide depth to the Blue Jackets' defense.

Kimelman: Kashawn Aitcheson - Aitcheson’s blend of skill and strength makes him a formidable player.

Morreale: Carter Bear - Bear’s versatility and scoring touch could be a significant asset for Vancouver.

Kimelman: Cameron Schmidt, RW, Vancouver (WHL) - Although the Canadiens may need a center, Schmidt’s talent is too great to pass up.

His speed and goal-scoring ability stand out, making him a prospect to watch in the upcoming draft.