LOS ANGELES – Let the chaos begin.

The 2025 NHL Draft kicks off in Los Angeles on Friday night, and it might be one of the most unpredictable we’ve ever seen. There has been so much chatter about who’ll go where, which teams will trade their picks and who the biggest surprises might be.

If you’re looking for a detailed draft ranking, check out our final 120 posted last week. But for those seeking a bit of intel, mixed in with some personal picks, here’s Daily Faceoff’s final mock draft:

1. New York Islanders: Matthew Schaefer, LHD (Erie Otters, OHL)

It’s hard passing over a guy who’s coming off one of the most productive seasons in recent CHL memory, but you rarely find guys like Schaefer. The Islanders absolutely need all the help they can get, and Schaefer would give them an incredible 1-2 duo alongside Noah Dobson (assuming he’s not traded). If he is, then Schaefer is that much more important to them. He’s the best player in this draft, combining his incredible skating with a great shot, outstanding hockey sense and a gifted two-way game. Schaefer is going to be a Norris Trophy contender sooner rather than later.

2. San Jose Sharks: Anton Frondell, C (Djurgardens, Allsvenskan)

If you asked around on Monday, most had Frondell at No. 3. By Wednesday? No. 2. At this point, it’s hard to tell if there’s legitimate truth to the rumors or if everyone around the league is being misled. But right now, there are just too many people linking Frondell to No. 2. Frondell is believed by many to be the best power forward in this class. At 6-foot-1 and more than 200 pounds, Frondell plays with a ton of muscle, knocking over anyone who gets in his way. That makes him especially useful when battling for possession along the boards, but he also has one of the hardest, deadliest shots in the entire draft class. Seriously – few players can launch shots like he can.

3. Chicago Blackhawks: Michael Misa, C (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)

So, if Misa is available, this is a huge get for the Hawks. Misa is the best offensive forward in this draft class, and it’s not really close. He’s arguably the best two-way forward, too, and there isn’t a player with a higher floor. Misa is a top-five shooter, passer and energy forward, too. There are so many projectable traits to show he’s more than just a junior goal-scorer, and he continues to get better with every passing week. Misa is an outstanding skater who’ll beat you both in short bursts and with his pure straight-line speed. He’s as good a play-driver as you’ll find from any forward in this class. His hockey sense is truly elite, too.

4. Utah Mammoth: Caleb Desnoyers, C (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL)

Could the Mammoth move this pick? They’ve got an excellent pipeline with depth at every position. They need more immediate help, and moving the fourth pick could get them exactly what they need. If not, I could see them taking Brady Martin, who has been linked to them for months now. Although, it feels like the better fit might be Desnoyers. Utah has some smaller forwards in their top six, so I feel like they’ll take a shot at Desnoyers and his bigger frame over someone like James Hagens. Desnoyers is a safe bet to become a two-way, top-six forward. I like his physical play, mostly because he doesn’t let anyone push him around. I think he’s a great playmaker and he’s one of the smarter centers in this draft. Desnoyers might not be the flashiest, but at the very least, but he does so many intelligent things with the puck every night.

5. Nashville Predators: Jake O’Brien, C (Brantford Bulldogs, OHL)

So, don’t be surprised if a team like Nashville takes a shot on O’Brien. And maybe he falls to Pittsburgh, a team that showed a lot of interest in him this year. If the Flyers don’t take him, O’Brien would be one heck of a get for the Bruins. I also think Porter Martone is a good fit here, too, but Nashville needs center depth. O’Brien has the skills and the smarts to be a very impressive center in the NHL. His off-puck play is great, and he’s always out-thinking his opponents. Give him a shooter to work with like he had in Brantford and he’ll make magic happen.

6. Philadelphia Flyers: Brady Martin, C (Soo Greyhounds, OHL)

Martin’s stock has become one of the most highly contested topics in the draft. If Utah doesn’t take him, I don’t see Martin making it past seven. Away from the puck, he hits everyone in sight, constantly battles hard for the puck and is a noted goal-scorer, too. Martin didn’t have top-level players to play with on the Greyhounds, but he does look like one of the best players to come out of the OHL this year because he does so much all over the ice and never gives up on a play. He’s a guy you win with – he can score, knock you down and beat you with skill.

7. Boston Bruins: Porter Martone, RW (Brampton Steelheads, OHL)

If Martone went as high as No. 5, I wouldn’t be surprised. The Bruins could use another center, but In terms of pure offense, there aren’t many who play like Martone. He has arguably the best vision in the entire draft class and has some of the best offensive IQ, too. While his skating might be lacking and some scouts wish he’d be more physical, everyone agrees that he’s one of the smartest players in this draft class. He just understands the game and how to exploit opportunities.

8. Seattle Kraken: Radim Mrtka, RHD (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL)

The Kraken seem to love using first-round picks on centers. This year, that’s gotta change, and I think they’ll take a run at Mrtka. Standing tall at 6-foot-6 and more than 200 pounds, Mrtka is one of the most fascinating defenders in this draft. He can skate with the puck, play a ton of minutes and can easily move the puck. At the 2025 NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo, multiple prospects considered Mrtka to be the most challenging player to go up against. Offensively, he doesn’t have many flaws – he can shoot, pass and even pull off some high-skill moves. While Mrtka is strong physically, he uses his size more to win battles and fend off attackers than to knock someone over. His ability to get hit but remain in control is second-to-none among defenders in this class.

9. Buffalo Sabres: James Hagens, C (Boston College, NCAA)

This could be an absolute steal. Hagens was one of the biggest fallers this year, partly due to his lack of size. Despite not having an explosive college season, many think Hagens is still one of the top prospects available. The Long Island, N.Y., native brings back draft memories of watching guys like Jack Hughes and Logan Cooley. Both centers are on the smaller side, and both rely on their hockey sense to win battles. If Hagens falls this far, you can absolutely bet on him hitting the NHL with a chip on his shoulder.

10. Anaheim Ducks: Jackson Smith, LHD (Tri-City Americans, WHL)

The Ducks could go anywhere here, but I like the idea of taking one of the best defenders in the draft in Smith. Kashawn Aitcheson is also one of the best options, too. Smith is physical, skates so well, and he’s very mobile for a 6-foot-3 defenseman. I also think his hockey sense is great, and it’s only a matter of time until he finds a way to explode offensively. If he can figure out how to limit the mistakes in his zone, Smith will have a mighty fine NHL career.

11. Pittsburgh Penguins: Roger McQueen, C (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL)

McQueen might be the riskiest pick given that he played just 20 games between the regular season and the playoffs. But the Penguins have a pair of picks and could use this as an opportunity to swing big. Despite missing so much time, McQueen was productive, physical, and brought so much to the table that very few others possess in this draft. McQueen has a big 6-foot-5 frame, but has the speed and skill you’d expect from someone much smaller. He can shoot, pass and intimidate all in one shift. A back injury is a tough one to overcome fully, but his pure talent is undeniable.

12. Pittsburgh Penguins (from Vancouver Canucks via New York Rangers): Kashawn Aitcheson, LHD (Barrie Colts, OHL)

Assuming the Penguins don’t move one – or both – of these picks, I assume they’ll take a defenseman with the second. I think Victor Eklund would be a massive get, too, and he might be the guy if O’Brien’s off the board. But if they indeed want to share the wealth, Aitcheson would be a huge pickup, and one the Penguins love. He finished the regular season with 26 goals and 59 points while registering 88 penalty minutes. He has the potential to be an intimidating force in the NHL – someone who just gives opponents nothing to work with. His physicality is the best attribute of his game because he’s willing to get involved with just about anyone.

13. Detroit Red Wings: Victor Eklund, RW (Djurgardens, Allsvenskan)

Eklund is coming off his first full season of playing pro men’s hockey with Djurgardens – a team he helped get up to the top division in Sweden for 2025-26. Eklund was the only draft-eligible prospect in the Allsvenskan to register 30 points, which is no easy feat. Eklund moves quickly and doesn’t waste any movement, making him difficult to push away from the crease. He isn’t big, which is why he likely will fall a bit in the draft, but he could be a big value pick for Detroit if he’s still available.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets: Lynden Lakovic, LW (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL)

The Blue Jackets interviewed a ton of big defenders at the NHL Draft Combine, but the odds of them getting the piece they need seem to be lower and lower each day. That being said, Lakovic seems like a smart pick here, even if I’d personally take him a bit lower. Things just seem to happen whenever he has the puck on the rush, and at 6-foot-4, he’s got tremendous size. Some scouts think he’s going to be more of a second-liner at best. He drives the play a bit like Dmitri Voronkov, but I’d like to see it more consistently. If he can add more explosiveness, he’ll be such a force.

15. Vancouver Canucks: Justin Carbonneau, RW (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL)

Carbonneau doesn’t seem to get enough love for the season he just had. He scored 46 goals and 89 points while boasting one of the best shots in the draft class. He’s known for making high-end moves and can beat most players in 1-on-1 situations. The upside is massive here, but he can be prone to giving the puck away too easily and doesn’t engage much physically. Still, with the right players around him, Carbonneau looks like a future first-line winger who can score 30 goals a season. With the Canucks likely moving on from Brock Boeser, this would be a perfect way to fill the gap.

16. Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames): Carter Bear, LW (Everett Silvertips, WHL)

If Bear is still around, this should be a no-brainer for the Canadiens. Bear was one of the CHL’s most dangerous forwards this year, registering 40 goals, 82 points and 77 penalty minutes in just 56 games. He’s a difficult player to play against, and his athleticism is top-notch. I still think he goes high in the draft, but it’ll be interesting to see if his late injury impacts his draft status. It shouldn’t, but I know some scouts aren’t convinced he’ll be a scorer in the NHL.

17. Montreal Canadiens: Logan Hensler, RHD (Univ. of Wisconsin, NCAA)

If the Canadiens still have both of their picks, I could see them using one of them on a blueliner. I’m not confident they’ll have both, but let’s pretend they are. Hensler isn’t huge at 6-foot-2, but he’s built strong and would give them a great bottom-four option. He’s a mobile blueliner who has good reach and can rough guys up. He’s even better in his own zone. You won’t confuse him for a puck-rushing offensive defenseman, though.

18. Calgary Flames (from New Jersey Devils): Benjamin Kindel, C (Calgary Hitmen, WHL)

The Flames had a ton of looks at Kindel this year, and it feels like a fit from rumors around the league. You don’t often find 99-point producers this deep, either. He’s equally good as a shooter and a playmaker and is the driving force of Calgary’s attack. Kindel does a great job of finding open space and exploiting it, and he has a shot he can unleash from just about anywhere. Below-average skating and a lack of a physical edge knock him down a few pegs, but I love what he did this season in Calgary.

19. St. Louis Blues: Cole Reschny, C (Victoria Royals, WHL)

With the puck, there’s so much to love. And I feel like he should go higher. But will teams be scared at his 5-foot-10 frame as a center? I get it, but this could prove to have a massive payoff for the Blues if they don’t take someone like Logan Hensler. Reschny’s ability to produce no matter the situation makes him so intriguing. He’s not huge, but he makes up for it with explosive speed and elusiveness, making him a tough player to contain on the rush. He’s an outstanding playmaker, maybe one of the best in this class. Reschny’s competitive nature will take him far.

20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota Wild): Cameron Reid, LHD (Kitchener Rangers, OHL)

Reid would be a big addition to the Blue Jackets. If Logan Hensler is still here, I think they take him instead. Reid isn’t big, but he can shut guys down. Reid can do a little bit of everything – his three-zone game is so good, and he’s got the intelligence to beat so many players in 1-on-1 situations. Reid might never be a top-pairing defenseman, but his skating should allow him to become at least a solid second-pairing blueliner.

21. Ottawa Senators: Malcolm Spence, LW (Erie Otters, OHL)

This is more of who I’d take with this pick than who I think they’d take. I feel confident that Spence will be a good NHLer. Maybe not a top-six player, but someone whom you can assign a job to do and he’ll get it done. The Mississauga native isn’t flashy, but he’s a hard worker who loves hitting everyone he can and getting anyone off their game. Spence isn’t a high-end producer in the OHL, but he has been a point-per-gamer for most of the past two seasons. He’s very versatile, although not necessarily a top-six play-driver. This seems like a good fit to me.

22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado Avalanche): Blake Fiddler, RHD (Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL)

The Flyers need some defensive help, and they’ll likely use their other first-round picks on forward. I think they’ll take the best defender available, no matter who it is. Maybe they reach and go even bigger with someone like Simon Wang, but Fiddler will be one of the best blueliners available at this point and a great fit for the system. At 6-foot-4, Fiddler takes up a lot of space, and can handle difficult matchups as well as anyone. He moves well for his size, too.

23. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning): Joshua Ravensbergen, G (Prince George Cougars, WHL)

The Predators traded their previous goalie of the future, Yaroslav Askarov, last summer. Do they use another first-rounder to get one of the best goaltending prospects since him? Ravensbergen is a big 6-foot-5 goaltender who moves so quickly and with little effort. Of all the goalies in this draft class, I think he might be the only one with true starter potential. He might be off the board at this point, though. If he is, I wonder if they take a chance on Benjamin Kindel.

24. Los Angeles Kings: Mason West, C (Edina, MNHS)

West has become one of the most interesting prospects in recent months. It didn’t seem like he viewed an NHL career as a possibility at the start of the year. Now, teams absolutely love the high-end potential – and the Kings seem to be a possible fit. He’s a 6-foot-6 center who loves to overpower defenders and beat opponents with skill. He spent most of the year playing high school hockey but then finished the season with some excellent performances with the USHL’s Fargo Force. Every time I watch him, he finds a way to get better. The upside is tremendous, and he doesn’t struggle with traits that some other big forwards can, including slower hands and feet. I have him ranked lower because I feel like he rose a bit too quick, but I don’t expect him to be around past pick… 37.

25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs): Braeden Cootes, C (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL)

Few forwards in this draft class get the puck as often as Cootes. He’s relentless with a non-stop motor, and he showed that in spades at the U-18 World Championship. Cootes is also a solid playmaker, often easily finding teammates in open space. I think his value goes far beyond his numbers, which you want from a center. He’s not small at six-foot, but he’s not huge, either. That doesn’t seem to hurt him, though, because he’s not afraid to play with an edge.

26. Nashville Predators (from Vegas Golden Knights via San Jose Sharks): Sascha Boumedienne, LHD (Boston Univ., NCAA)

Nashville’s top prospect right now is defenseman Tanner Molendyk, but the blueline depth beyond that is quite thin. So it feels like they’ll go with a defenseman here, and Boumedienne would be an excellent fit. Some scouts seemed mixed on him as a first-rounder throughout the year, but a great end to the season put him back into the conversation. Boumedienne has high-end attributes that teams love, but he just needs to calm down and play at his own pace. If he can do that, he’ll be excellent.

27. Washington Capitals: Milton Gastrin, C (Modo, Sweden U-20)

The Capitals have some tremendous depth on the wings, and Cole Hutson is a great option on the blueline. I could see them snagging a blueliner here if Fiddler or Boumedienne are still on the board. But if not, Gastrin could become their best center prospect. Gastrin will not be a point producer in the NHL, but he will do so many other things that excite you. He’s defensively responsible, wins a ton of face-offs and can play the wing when you need him to. Gastrin is an underrated prospect, in my opinion.

28. Winnipeg Jets: Henry Brzustewicz, RHD (London Knights, OHL)

The Jets have plenty of forward depth, but less so on the point. I think Brzustewicz gives the team a solid supporting blueliner who took big leaps in his two-way game this year. Scouting opinions vary for Brzustewicz, with some not convinced he’s a first-rounder. But with the talent drop-off in the latter stages of the first round, a team like the Jets might look to gamble on the right-shot defender here.

29. Carolina Hurricanes: Jack Nesbitt, C (Windsor Spitfires, OHL)

Nesbitt is a big centerman who would be perfect as the team’s third center, and we know the Hurricanes like to swing big on draft day. He’s a big, 6-foot-4 center – can’t go wrong with that. I wish he had more top speed, but I think Nesbitt has a solid ceiling. He showed how good he could be around the net during the U-18s, creating havoc and pushing guys around while jumping in on rebounds.

30. San Jose Sharks (from Dallas Stars): Max Psenicka, RHD (Portland Winterhawks, WHL)

I know the numbers don’t back it up, but many scouts think Psenicka has the capability of producing better numbers than what he put up in the WHL this year. Plus, at 6-foot-5, he gives the Sharks another big body on the blueline behind Sam Dickinson. I think there’d be a chance he’d be available at 33, but I wouldn’t take the chance of passing him up. A large defender who can move and shoots right? Precisely what the Sharks need.

31. Philadelphia Flyers (from Edmonton Oilers): William Horcoff, C/LW (Univ. of Michigan, NCAA)

The Flyers could use a defenseman in the first round, but with Nesbitt being a good fit (and unlikely to make it this far), they might miss out on the piece they need on the blueline. If Psenicka is around here, I think they take him. I wouldn’t be surprised if they took Wang or Kurban Limatov, although that would feel like more of a stretch. If they go with a forward, Horcoff feels like a perfect Flyer. He’s physical, mean, athletic and showed some serious improvement after departing the USNTDP to join Michigan midway through the year. With some added pace, this could be a steal of a pick.

32. Calgary Flames (from Florida Panthers): Ryker Lee, RW (Madison Capitols, USHL)

You’re always hoping the smaller players will have a late growth spurt, and that’s exactly what happened to Lee. He said he was 5-foot-3 at 15 years old and was listed at 5-foot-7 prior to this season. Now at six-foot, who knows how much more growing he has left in him. Lee was one of the best players in the USHL this season, using his quick hands and excellent hockey IQ in the offensive zone to win so many battles. The Flames should bet on his potential here.

33. San Jose Sharks: Bill Zonnon, LW (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL)

The Sharks have plenty of skilled players, but they need some muscle. That’s why I like Zonnon here. He’s very energetic, a tremendous playmaker and is looking more comfortable as a shooter, too. He’s physical, smart and is an excellent passer who can do some dangerous things with the puck. When he has it on his stick, he makes things happen in open space. Without it, he creates space for his teammates and he gets himself to the net.

34. Chicago Blackhawks: Shane Vansaghi, RW (Michigan State Univ., NCAA)

Outside of his lackluster skating and slow pace, Vansaghi has most of the traits you’re hoping for from a bottom-six NHLer. He hits hard, brings energy, and never gives up on a play. The Blackhawks don’t have a lot of forwards with size, but Vansaghi could make up for it with his competitiveness and ferocity. I also think he’ll be able to add a bit more offense to his game once he gets more opportunities higher up in MSU’s lineup. Don’t be surprised if Vansaghi is gone in the top 30, though.

35. Nashville Predators: Cullen Potter, C (Arizona State Univ., NCAA)

It’s easy to look at Potter’s 5-foot-9, 172-pound frame and discount him. But you shouldn’t, and the Preds would be lucky to land him. He played around 20 minutes a night as a 17-year-old at ASU, and scouts were impressed with his play-driving abilities. I like his commitment to playing in all three zones, and he anticipates plays and gets himself where he needs to be better than most of the draft class. I think the ceiling is higher for Potter than many others around this part of the draft, but he needs to show he can handle the physical challenge.

36. Philadelphia Flyers: Jacob Rombach, LHD (Lincoln Stars, USHL)

If the Flyers don’t use a first-rounder on a defenseman, I think they will here, no matter what. The 6-foot-6 Rombach is excellent at forcing turnovers and has a good shot, although some scouts wish he’d use it more. He’s not the most skilled defender, but after spending the past two years in the USHL, you can tell he’s got the maturity and hockey IQ to be effective in his own zone. Rombach has all the makings of a no-nonsense shutdown defender.

37. Washington Capitals (from Boston Bruins): Daniil Prokhorov, RW (Dynamo St. Petersburg, MHL)

There are plenty of teams I could see taking Prokhorov higher up this year. He’s got a huge 6-foot-5, 209-pound frame and is quite skilled, too. I have him at No. 66 because I’m not sure he’s skilled or dynamic enough to be the impact player many think he can be. But in a so-so draft class, I like the idea of the Caps banking on his brute force and great shot here.

38. Seattle Kraken: Václav Nestrašil, RW (Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL)

After taking a big defenseman in the first round, the Kraken select Mrtka’s countryman in Nestrašil. The Czech forward is 6-foot-5, skates well and is exceptionally skilled with the puck. He’s tall, but he’s not physically strong. Once he adds some muscle to his game, he could become quite the power forward. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a team take him in the first round.

39. Buffalo Sabres: Haoxi (Simon) Wang, LHD (Oshawa Generals, OHL)

Regardless of who the Sabres take in the first round, I like the idea of them adding Wang and his high-end upside, too. He’s huge at 6-foot-6 and moves well, too. He didn’t have much offense after joining the Generals, but it’s never easy to be implanted in a team’s system midway through and hope to steal ice time away. Wang is extremely raw, but he’s absolutely one of the most intriguing defenders in this class.

40. Philadelphia Flyers (from ANA): Kurban Limatov, LHD (Dynamo Moscow, KHL)

Limatov might be a bit of a stretch, but they need some extra defensive help and might be able to get it here. This would be solely drafting for need. If Rombach or Wang would be still be around here, I think they’d take one of them instead. The 6-foot-3 defender is mobile, hits as hard as anyone and is a great puck distributor. He’s one of the best skaters playing in Europe, using his mobility to beat players at speed and get himself out of danger. His decisions with the puck need some work, though.

41. Montreal Canadiens (from PIT): Cole McKinney, C (USNTDP)

After going with a winger and a defenseman in the first, the Canadiens go with a center here. McKinney is a mid-sized, two-way center who can play on the penalty kill, block shots and win a ton of faceoffs. He’s not going to be a play driver in the NHL, but he’s detail-oriented and astute. McKinney is also not afraid to land a big hit to channel some energy. We’ll see if the physical play continues against older competition.

42. New York Islanders: Semyon Frolov, G (MHK Spartak Moskva, MHL)

Many scouts think Frolov is one of the best goaltenders in this draft class, and I think a team needing some extra depth in the crease will take him in the second to make the most of it. The 6-foot-3 keeper is quick, allowing him to make some excellent lateral saves. The two things knocking him, though, is that he can be fooled into going down too early and that he never seems to want to play the puck – something that more mobile defensive units could struggle adjusting to. But in terms of true, raw potential, so many love Frolov.

43. New York Rangers: Eric Nilson, C (Djurgardens, Sweden U-20)

Nilson isn’t going to be flashy and he’s definitely not an exciting pick. But the Rangers need value here after watching some of their prospects miss the mark. I can see Nilson becoming an effective bottom-six forward because he’s so committed to winning every battle while still maintaining his position in his own zone. I like his work ethic, and I think he’s a better finisher than a playdriver.

44. Detroit Red Wings: Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, RW (Lulea, Sweden U-20)

The Red Wings love drafting out of Sweden, and they’ve shown a willingness to take on flawed forward prospects and bet high on talent. Ihs Wozniak is streaky, but the goal-scoring instincts are definitely there. He just needs to figure out how to be more consistent if he’s going to excel at the next level. But in terms of raw talent, Ihs-Wozniak has loads of it and I love his shot.

45. Anaheim Ducks (from Columbus Blue Jackets via Philadelphia Flyers): Jack Murtagh, LW (USNTDP)

Murtagh struggled to close out the season, leaving some wondering if he’s got the ability to take over important games. On the surface, though, I still think Murtagh falling here could prove to be a steal for the Ducks. Murtagh is a skilled puck handler who can absolutely fire a shot and is a bit of a workhorse, too. I think he’s a good skater and has the hockey sense you’re looking for in a second or third-liner.

46. Utah Mammoth: Matthew Gard, C (Red Deer Rebels, WHL)

The Mammoth have a ton of size in the pipeline, and I imagine they’ll continue to bulk up this year. Gard looked good for the Rebels this year, serving as a toolsy, 200-foot center. He has a good 6-foot-4 frame and can make some highlight-reel plays. His true value comes in just how hard he battles in his own zone, rarely allowing opponents to get the better of him. I like him as a support player.

47. Vancouver Canucks: Peyton Kettles, RHD (Swift Current Broncos, WHL)

Kettles doesn’t have much offensive potential – but, boy, he’s one difficult son of a you-know-what. The 6-foot-5 defender takes up a ton of space, defends well and is decently mobile for his size. He can kill penalties, and I actually think he’s better offensively than his 14 points suggest. Kettles also plays a ton of minutes, which is never a bad thing. The Canucks could use another shutdown defender in the system, so I like this pick for them.

48. Philadelphia Flyers (from Calgary Flames): Michal Pradel, G (Tri-City Storm, USHL)

I have Pradel ranked higher than most, but I really believe in him. He was one of the best goaltenders from start to finish at the U-18s, and a big reason why the Slovaks played for bronze. The 6-foot-5 goaltender takes up a ton of the net, and he’s also so quick and agile, too. He was applauded for his ability to steal games in the USHL, similar to Mikhail Yegorov a year ago. Pradel battles hard, sees cross-crease passes well and doesn’t let a bad goal bother him. Flyers should take a goalie in the second round, and this feels like the right choice.

49. Montreal Canadiens: Cameron Schmidt, RW (Vancouver Giants, WHL)

The Canadiens have never shied away from smaller forwards and this is a first-round caliber player that likely will still be around at this pick. Schmidt is tiny at 5-foot-8, but he makes up for it in pure skill. At his best, Schmidt is a pure offensive forward with great speed and likes being in front of the net. I appreciate that he has focused a lot on improving his defense this year, too. With the Habs already boasting one of the best pipelines in hockey, I think they should definitely take a swing here to land a high-value piece.

50. New Jersey Devils: Nathan Behm, RW (Kamloops Blazers, WHL)

Behm had a breakout season with the Blazers, becoming a 30-goal scorer for the first time. He has always been a decent goal scorer at every level, but he has found a way to put more muscle behind his shot while being better defensively, too. His skating is still a work in progress – he’s not particularly quick and can be beaten by mid-range skaters. But his play with the puck has been incredible this year and I think there’s some serious potential as a secondary scorer. For the Devils, this is a nice pickup.

51. Boston Bruins (from St. Louis Blues via Pittsburgh Penguins and Edmonton Oilers): William Moore, C (USNTDP)

The Bruins would continue to improve their center depth by taking Moore here. Moore, a two-way forward, has good size at 6-foot-2, and he’s not afraid to outmuscle players. He doesn’t get too fancy or anything like that with the puck – instead, he spends a lot of time around the net at both ends of the ice. The ceiling isn’t high, but the floor seems safe with this pick.

52. Minnesota Wild: Alexander Zharovsky, RW (Ufa, MHL)

Zharovsky was one of the biggest second-half risers this season. He put up excellent numbers in the MHL while being so dangerous on the rush. He definitely needs to add more muscle, but if he can even gain 15 pounds, he’d be significantly tougher to steal the puck off of. He’s crafty, smart and dangerous in open space. The Wild have shown a willingness to draft out of Russia and this could be another home run pick.

53. San Jose Sharks (from Ottawa Senators): Eddie Genborg, RW (Linkoping, SHL)

Genborg is best when he gets to run loose and hit everyone who comes near him. I don’t see much high-end offensive potential but he’s hard to play against, at the very least. He does a lot away from the puck, which is something I value quite a lot. Genborg is absolutely relentless, plays a reliable two-way game and didn’t look out of place in the SHL. After taking Zonnon earlier in the second, Genborg would give the Sharks an even more violent option in the bottom six.

54. Calgary Flames (from Colorado Avalanche via Washington Capitals): Ivan Ryabkin, C (Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL)

After entering the season as a top-five prospect, Ryabkin will have to wait until Day 2 to hear his name called. Could he turn out to be a steal for the Flames? He proved he could score in the USHL. We’ve also seen him flesh out his physical and playmaking games, with his passing and hockey sense being two of his best traits. He should probably go above this pick, but many around the NHL Draft Combine talked about some issues with his maturity and attitude.

55. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning): Luca Romano, C (Kitchener Rangers, OHL)

This is the Preds taking a shot on a player many expect to have a further breakout next year. He’s a good skater, has a powerful shot and can hold his own physically despite being a mid-sized center. What makes him intriguing is his energy and the way he chases everyone around the entire game. I think he’ll be a decent bottom-six forward, and some added muscle will help.

56. Tampa Bay Lightning (from Los Angeles Kings): Alexei Medvedev (London Knights, OHL)

The Bolts have very little goaltending depth to work with, so it feels like they’ll try and capitalize on a solid gorup. Like any goalie who grows, Medvedev needed time to adjust to his larger frame. He was drafted to the OHL in 2023 as a 5-foot-11 keeper but stands at 6-foot-2 now. Medvedev is a quick goalie who has a bit of an unorthodox hunchback style, but his pure athleticism wins out more often than not. There just aren’t many flaws in how he commands the crease.

57. Seattle Kraken (from Toronto Maple Leafs via Utah Mammoth and Tampa Bay Lightning): Carter Amico, RHD (USNTDP)

The Kraken could use some more size on their back end, and that’s where Amico comes in. The USNTDP product Amico suffered a season-ending injury in November, which unfortunately hurt his draft stock. He’s a big 6-foot-5 right-handed defender who makes it his mission to stop you from beating him in 1-on-1 situations. He’s strong, smart and a decent skater, too. His on-puck game is still a work in progress, so the lost time won’t help. But many thought he could have been taken early in the second round heading into the season. We’ll see if Seattle believes that still.

58. Vegas Golden Knights: Kristian Epperson, LW (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)

The Golden Knights don’t have a first-rounder this year, so they don’t have to worry about trading that away (again). Epperson was passed over after falling out of favor with the USNTDP U-18 team and was ultimately loaned to the U-17 team to finish his two-year tenure there. He shifted gears to Saginaw, where he became an 80-point scorer in the team’s top six. He’s a great distributor who plays a smart off-puck game. The University of Denver commit has received criticisms about his attitude, but his skill might be enough for a team like the Golden Knights to take a chance on him.

59. Pittsburgh Penguins (from Washington Capitals): Theo Stockselius, RW (Djurgardens, Sweden U-20)

Don’t be surprised if someone takes the big Swede much earlier. But if not, I like this for the Pens. Stockselius played some of his most effective hockey to finish the season at the U-18s. Primarily in a bottom-six role, Stockselius used his 6-foot-3 frame to win battles, and it paid off on the scoresheet. I like his own-zone awareness and his commitment to shutting guys down whenever he could.

60. Anaheim Ducks (from Winnipeg Jets via New Jersey Devils): Ethan Czata, C (Niagara IceDogs, OHL)

This could be a nice value pick, especially if Czata ends up taking on a bigger role in Niagara next season. He’s a good two-way forward who can play in many different situations, but I think he’ll be used more in a bottom-six role. He put up good numbers this year, but I’d like to see him add more finesse and deception to his game next season. At the very least, his energetic nature should excite the Ducks.

61. Boston Bruins (from Carolina Hurricanes via Colorado Avalanche): Carlos Händel, RHD (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

Center depth is the Bruins’ biggest need this offseason, but they have a brutal blueline pipeline. That’s why I like Händel here. He’s not afraid to get engaged on the rush and is capable of leading a power play, too. Händel produced at half a point per game with Halifax, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him double that output a year from now.

62. Chicago Blackhawks (from Dallas Stars): Michal Svrcek, C/LW (Brynas IF, SHL)

Svrcek was one of the biggest risers in the draft this year, and someone some believe won’t be around this late. The 5-foot-10 forward is a bit undersized, but he makes up for it with his speed and vision. He’s also a transitional monster, allowing himself to be effective in all three zones. Svrcek has experience on the penalty kill, often forcing opponents to make quicker plays than they were planning on. I’m not as high on Svrcek as others, but I absolutely think there’s something here.

63. New Jersey Devils (from Edmonton Oilers via Utah Mammoth): Pyotr Andreyanov, G (Krasnaya Armiya Moskva, MHL)

The Devils already have a solid goalie in the pipeline in Mikhail Yegorov, but extra depth doesn’t hurt. And it helps that Andreyanov is expected to remain in the KHL for another five years, giving the Devils some extra runway with him. Andreyanov had a tremendous season against Russian junior competition, showing some flashes of high-end ability. His glove hand is quick, he’s reactive when he needs to be, and he doesn’t get frazzled when he lets a goal in. Andreyanov’s lack of size won’t help him, but his mobility might make up for it.

64. Toronto Maple Leafs (from Florida Panthers): Tyler Hopkins, C (Kingston Frontenacs, OHL)

The Leafs traded away Fraser Minten at the trade deadline, so Hopkins could be a decent – albeit lesser – replacement. In Kingston, he’s a smart, two-way center whom you can rely on in the D-zone. Hopkins will only really be a support player in the NHL but his two-way game makes him very useful. I want to see him evolve more as a dynamic playmaker, but I like where his game is right now.

Tune in for The Sheet Draft Special, streaming live on the Daily Faceoff YouTube channel on Friday, June 27th at 7 PM EST. Hosted by Jeff Marek, this live special will cover all the action from the 2025 Draft, including expert analysis of top prospects, team-by-team breakdowns, and real-time reactions to every pick. Whether you’re tracking your team’s future stars or just love the drama of draft night, this is your go-to destination for all things Draft.