As major junior and NCAA playoffs commence, and European leagues conclude their playoffs, the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, creating excitement for hockey enthusiasts and scouts.
Following Sam Cosentino`s recent draft rankings, I present my list of top prospects for the first two rounds.
The Top Five
No. 1: Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie Otters (OHL)
NHL Projection: Top-pairing, two-way transitional defenseman. A complete player.
Despite limited regular season games due to injury at the World Juniors, Schaefer remains my top prospect. Recovering well from a broken collarbone, he is expected to return stronger. Schaefer is a dedicated player, averaging significant ice time for the Otters, contributing offensively and defensively. He`s a dynamic offensive threat and defensively responsible, known for his competitiveness and maturity.
No. 2: Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
NHL Projection: Top-line forward, point producer, excelling at even strength and PP1.
Misa`s exceptional season included winning the CHL scoring race with impressive stats. Granted exceptional player status in 2022, he has completed three major junior seasons. Transitioning to center this year enhanced his game, showcasing his speed and puck-handling skills. He`s become a top shooter in the draft class, evolving from playmaker to scorer. Misa is reliable defensively, and his offensive talent is undeniable.
No. 3: Anton Frondell, C, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
NHL Projection: Top-line scorer, shooter, power play specialist.
Frondell is a rising prospect, recognized as the draft`s premier pure shooter. His skill, hockey IQ, and pace allow versatility at center or wing. Playing professionally in Sweden has aided his development. He demonstrates offensive prowess and thrives in crucial moments.
No. 4: James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)
NHL Projection: Top-line forward, play driver and maker, power play specialist.
Hagens has excelled in his freshman year at Boston College, playing on their top line. He`s constantly active and challenging to contain, especially on the power play. His relentless puck pursuit and offensive contributions are notable, projecting him as a top-line NHL scorer.
No. 5: Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
NHL Projection: Top-six forward, trending towards a complete player, deployed in all situations.
Desnoyers is versatile and effective in all zones. His impressive regular season stats reflect his capabilities. He possesses elite hockey sense, capable of attacking with speed or adjusting his play. He is offensively gifted and defensively responsible.
Lottery Picks: 6-16
No. 6: Porter Martone, RW, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
NHL Projection: Top-six power forward, natural goal scorer.
Martone effectively uses his size, especially in high-scoring areas. He has a quick release and is a strong skater for his size. Scouts will be watching him closely in the OHL playoffs.
No. 7: Roger McQueen, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
NHL Projection: Top-six forward, equal parts shooter/distributor.
Despite missing time due to injury, McQueen has returned strong. He`s a large player with a significant presence, skilled in both shooting and playmaking. His puck skills and vision on the power play are particularly valuable.
No. 8: Victor Eklund, LW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
NHL Projection: Top-six skill forward, quick striker, play driver.
Eklund is a dynamic, speedy forward, elusive and hard to defend. Despite his size, he`s consistently involved in plays, demonstrating both scoring and playmaking abilities. His performance in Sweden as a draft prospect is impressive.
No. 9: Carter Bear, LW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)
NHL Projection: Top-six forward, equal parts shooter and distributor, deployed in all situations.
Bear suffered a season-ending injury but was a reliable scorer and a tenacious player in all zones. He is known for his competitiveness and consistent effort.
No. 10: Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
NHL Projection: Top-pairing, two-way defenseman.
Mrtka logs heavy minutes and showcases a broad skillset. This right-shot defenseman contributes offensively and defensively, using his size effectively. He is adapting well to the North American ice.
No. 11: Jake O’Brien, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
NHL Projection: Top-six forward, deceptive playmaker.
O’Brien is a skilled playmaker with a knack for finding scoring opportunities. He has improved his defensive game and is a valuable offensive contributor. He needs to add strength to enhance his skating and overall game.
No. 12: Brady Martin, C, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)
NHL Projection: Top-six forward, relentless competitor, deployed in all situations.
Martin is arguably the most competitive player in the draft. He is a tireless, lead-by-example player who plays bigger than his size. He is known for his physicality and determination.
No. 13: Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City Americans (WHL)
NHL Projection: Middle/potential top-pairing two-way defenseman, deployed in all situations.
Smith is a versatile prospect who excels in all areas. He is a strong skater with offensive capabilities, but his size and defensive strength are particularly impressive.
No. 14: Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)
NHL Projection: Middle-pairing two-way defenseman, skilled for all situations.
Hensler is a sought-after right-shot defenseman with size and skating ability suited for the NHL. He is developing his offensive game, but his defensive capabilities and work ethic are strong.
No. 15: Ben Kindel, C, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
NHL Projection: Top-six forward, playmaker.
Kindel`s game has shown significant improvement. He is a power play quarterback with excellent vision and playmaking skills.
