The 2025 NHL Draft is around the corner, so we enlisted the help of our entire scouting staff to mock things up.

The 2025 draft will begin on Friday, June 27, with the first 32 selections taking place in a quasi-remote setup. While all 32 NHL franchises call their home cities their home base, prospects will flock to the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles to participate in the festivities.

Nearly three dozen players will celebrate hard on Friday night. The remaining of the estimated 90 in attendance will have another sleepless night before returning for the remaining rounds of the draft.

Here’s a look at who could be raising a glass after the opening picks:

1. New York Islanders: Matthew Schaefer | D | Erie (OHL) | FC Rank: 1

The New York Islanders select Matthew Schaefer of the Erie Otters with the first pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Schaefer is a poised, mobile, and intelligent defenseman whose game is anchored by elite skating and exceptional hockey sense. His fluid stride, edge control, and lateral mobility allow him to evade pressure, support play, and transition effectively. Offensively, he creates space with deception and agility, excels in distribution, and quarterbacks the power play with vision and poise. Defensively, he’s composed, well-positioned, and disruptive. Schaefer’s maturity, leadership traits, and all-zone impact make him a high-end, modern blueliner.

“Schaefer is, for my money, the very clear No. 1 prospect for the 2025 draft. As such, it would behoove the New York Islanders to take the best player available, and Schaefer — a blueliner with impressive two-way skill and top-pair, Norris upside — absolutely fits that bill to a tee.” — FCHockey crossover scout Aaron Vickers

2. San Jose Sharks: Michael Misa | C | Saginaw (OHL) | FC Rank: 2

The San Jose Sharks select Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit with the second pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Misa is a dynamic and versatile forward whose elite agility, advanced vision, and polished offensive skillset drive his game. His fluid skating and quick acceleration allow him to navigate tight spaces and maintain possession under pressure. With soft hands and sharp stickhandling, he creates space and delivers precise, well-timed passes. Equally effective as a scorer or playmaker, Misa excels on the power play and in transition. His two-way awareness, positional versatility, and leadership qualities enhance his all-around value.

“San Jose’s rebuild has been off to a great start and, while they could probably use a defenseman here, I think it’s hard to pass up on a guy like Misa — a dynamic offensive talent with incredible awareness of where his teammates are and what the right play to make is. Pair that with his magic hands and underrated two-way game, and you’ve got one hell of a prospect. Adding Misa to the team’s prospect pool would bolster the forward core even more.” — FCHockey chief goaltending scout David Phillips

3. Chicago Blackhawks: Anton Frondell | C | Djugarden (Allsvenskan) | FC Rank: 7

The Chicago Blackhawks select Anton Frondell of Djugardens IF with the third pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Frondell is a skilled, intelligent forward with strong two-way habits and a competitive edge. His advanced hockey sense and poise under pressure allow him to make quick, effective decisions with the puck. He excels as both a shooter and passer, highlighted by a dangerous one-timer and deceptive playmaking ability. Frondell protects the puck well, thrives in net-front and board battles, and supports play with smart off-puck movement. His versatility, work ethic, and situational reliability round out his well-rounded profile.

“Selecting Frondell adds a versatile player with both high-end talent and smarts to the growing list of Chicago prospects. With Misa off the board, the next group of players come with plenty of questions. Frondell is a top end two-way forward with a great shot and hockey sense, I believe there is enough offensive upside to warrant a top-three selection.” — FCHockey crossover scout Nathan Hutchinson

4. Utah Mammoth: Caleb Desnoyers | C | Moncton (QMJHL) | FC Rank: 4

The Utah Mammoth selects Caleb Desnoyers of the Moncton Wildcats with the fourth pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Desnoyers is a big, intelligent, and physically assertive two-way center who excels through defensive structure, work ethic, and smart positional play. His relentless motor drives effective forechecking, backchecking, and puck support, while his strength and mobility make him a force in battles. Offensively, he plays a poised, efficient game, thriving in give-and-go sequences and distributing with vision and timing. Strong around the net and in the faceoff circle, Desnoyers is a dependable, matchup-ready presence in all situations.

“Utah needs a second-line center to slot in behind Logan Cooley. There are a couple of ways they can fill that need, but Desnoyers is the best option. Out of the remaining centers, Desnoyers plays the most complete two-way game and is most capable of taking some defensive pressure off of Cooley.” — FCHockey regional scout Jacob Roth

5. Nashville Predators: James Hagens | C | Boston College (NCAA) | FC Rank: 3

The Nashville Predators select James Hagens of Boston College with the fifth pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Hagens is a cerebral, high-skill center whose elite hockey sense and playmaking instincts set him apart. He excels at creating high-danger chances through sharp vision, deceptive passing, and precise timing. His puck control, decision-making, and ability to manipulate defenders allow him to drive offensive play in transition and sustained pressure. Hagens also contributes as a goal scorer, with a quick release and strong positional awareness. Defensively, he’s reliable, aware, and engaged, rounding out a complete, top-line-caliber profile.

“Nashville is looking for their future No. 1 center in Hagens. They have a lot of two-way pieces, but getting a difference-maker like Hagens would make them much stronger in the long run. To me he is already falling at this point, and him getting overlooked is the best thing that could have happened to Nashville.” — FCHockey chief European scout Samuel Tirpak

6. Philadelphia Flyers: Jake O’Brien | C | Brantford (OHL) | FC Rank: 8

The Philadelphia Flyers select Jake O’Brien of the Brantford Bulldogs with the sixth pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

O’Brien is a highly intelligent, right-shot center whose elite hockey sense and mature two-way game make him effective in all situations. He thrives as a facilitator, showcasing exceptional vision, timing, and poise under pressure. His quick hands and methodical puck control allow him to maintain possession and create space, while his net-front presence adds scoring touch. Defensively, he’s reliable and versatile, with strong positioning and active stick work. O’Brien’s high compete level and hockey IQ define his impact.

“As tempting as selecting others may be, the Flyers currently lack a true top-line center in their young core. O’Brien clearly fits that need — a highly intelligent two-way forward with elite vision and playmaking ability who excels at reading the game and generating high-danger opportunities. The prospect of O’Brien feeding pucks to Matvei Michkov is also an enticing scenario to consider.” — FCHockey chief Eastern scout Joey Fortin Boulay

7. Boston Bruins: Brady Martin | C | Soo (OHL) | FC Rank: 14

The Boston Bruins select Brady Martin of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds with the seventh pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Martin is a high-motor, two-way forward who blends relentless physicality with skill and straight-line speed. He excels at pressuring puck carriers, finishing checks, and winning board battles, making him a disruptive force. Offensively, he owns a heavy, accurate shot and thrives in high-traffic areas, particularly around the net. His strong skating base supports puck protection and net drives, while his smart support play and defensive awareness add value. Martin’s energy, versatility, and competitiveness make him a reliable, impactful presence.

“While Boston’s roster needs more talent primarily, they’re also on the hunt for scoring and competitiveness. Martin brings all three qualities. He is an old school forward and, while the league is getting more skill-based, you still win Stanley Cups with hard-nosed players like Martin.” — FCHockey regional scout Nathanial Duffett

8. Seattle Kraken: Porter Martone | RW | Brampton (OHL) | FC Rank: 5

The Seattle Kraken select Porter Martone of the Brampton Steelheads with the eighth pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Martone is a powerful, intelligent winger whose rare blend of size, skill, and versatility allows him to impact the game in all three zones. He combines soft hands and advanced puckhandling with a heavy, accurate shot and sharp vision, excelling as both a shooter and playmaker. Strong in puck protection and net-front scenarios, he sustains pressure effectively. Defensively reliable and trusted in key roles, Martone’s compete level, adaptability, and dual-threat offensive game make him a highly projectable top-line presence.

“Although the Kraken could use a defenseman, they cannot pass the combination of size and skill that Porter Martone brings. With Martone still on the board, they’re gonna run to the podium. While his skating does need work, his shot and hockey sense is too good to pass up.” — FCHockey crossover scout Jonathan Cottone

9. Buffalo Sabres: Kashawn Aitcheson | D | Barrie (OHL) | FC Rank: 12

The Buffalo Sabres select Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts with the ninth pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Aitcheson is a physical, left-shot defenseman who blends size, skating, and competitive fire into a dependable two-way game. He excels defensively through disciplined positioning, strong crease-clearing, shot blocking, and physical puck battles. Offensively, he owns a heavy, accurate point shot and shows sound instincts when joining the rush. His straight-line speed and edgework support tight gaps and smooth transitions, while his poise and smart outlets aid zone exits. Aitcheson thrives in high-intensity minutes and brings consistent, rugged reliability.

“Buffalo takes Aitcheson, an old-school style blueliner who brings a skillset they are lacking. Despite plenty of left-handed defensemen in their system, Aitcheson’s physical style and defensive prowess are two areas they need to improve on. While other options could make more sense in the short term, Aitcheson is a player Buffalo’s scouts could easily fall in love with.” — FCHockey scout Austin Broad

10. Anaheim Ducks: Victor Eklund | LW | Djugarden (Allsvenskan) | FC Rank: 6

The Anaheim Ducks select Victor Eklund of Djugardens IF  with the 10th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Eklund is a dynamic, high-compete forward whose game is driven by elite skating, refined puck skills, and relentless energy. His explosive speed, strong edgework, and fluid stride allow him to create separation and stay involved across all three zones. He excels in transition, manipulates defenders with deception, and delivers crisp passes in stride or from tight spaces. Eklund battles hard in traffic, supports teammates consistently, and combines tempo, puck control, and offensive creativity into a top-six-caliber profile.

“Anaheim is at a stage where they are looking to retool and reshape their lineup. With the recent trade of Trevor Zegras and strong crop of young, up-and-coming defenseman, it makes an awful lot of sense for the Ducks to select a versatile, high energy forward such as Eklund.” — FCHockey regional scout Mike Kennedy

11. Pittsburgh Penguins: Radim Mrtka | D | Seattle (WHL) | FC Rank: 16

The Pittsburgh Penguins select Radim Mrtka of the Seattle Thunderbirds with the 11th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Mrtka is a towering, right-shot defenseman combining size, fluid skating, and strong defensive intelligence. He controls play with tight gaps, active stick work, and sound positioning, effectively shutting down opponents. His calmness under pressure aids puck possession and smart outlet passes. Offensively, he shows growing confidence as a puck mover with good vision and timing. Reliable on special teams, Mrtka’s adaptability, physical presence, and steady development project him as a dependable top-four NHL defender.

“Mrtka, at this spot, feels like great value to me. He’s got a big body, moves well, shows flashes of offensive upside, as well as elite defensive stick checking through his reach and persistence. I think at worst there’s a bottom pairing two-way defender that can be really hard to play against on his night. The best-case scenario is a consistently reliable top-four defender at both ends of the ice.” — FCHockey crossover scout Greysen Goudy

12. Pittsburgh Penguins: Roger McQueen | D | Brandon (WHL) | FC Rank: 11

The Penguins select Roger McQueen of the Brandon Wheat Kings with the 12th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

McQueen is a hulking, right-shot center known for elite puck protection, intelligent offensive reads, and composure under pressure. His soft hands and strength allow him to extend possessions and create quality chances with precise passing and a dangerous one-timer. A disciplined faceoff specialist, he combines strong straight-line skating with effective reach defensively. McQueen’s dual-threat offensive ability, physical frame, and improving defensive awareness position him as a promising power forward with significant upside.

“McQueen isn’t without question marks — namely his injury issues — but his combination of size, strength, creativity, and all round mobility give him the upside of a top line center. In the phase they’re in, there’s just no way the Penguins should be letting a guy like McQueen get past them.” — FCHockey crossover scout Greysen Goudy

13. Detroit Red Wings: Lynden Lakovic | LW | Moose Jaw (WHL) | FC Rank: 10

The Detroit Red Wings select Lynden Lakovic of the Moose Jaw Warriors with the 13th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Lakovic is a skilled, offensive-minded winger combining size, fluid skating, and refined puck skills to create a unique on-ice presence. His smooth stride and spatial awareness allow him to arrive undetected in scoring areas, where he utilizes a heavy, accurate shot and soft finishes. He protects the puck effectively and shows steady growth in playmaking and ice vision. Defensively responsible with strong board play, Lakovic’s calculated, timely execution makes him a versatile, consistent offensive threat.

“Lakovic, in my opinion, is the best player available here. He’s a big winger who skates well and has some stand out traits that put him ahead of the rest. His shooting is outstanding, and his high end IQ allows him to get into positions to let that shot go. Between his skating, smarts, and that powerful shot, there’s an impact player there in Lakovic.” — FCHockey regional scout Kyle Pereira

14. Columbus Blue Jackets: Jackson Smith | D | Tri-City (WHL) | FC Rank: 15

The Columbus Blue Jackets select Jackson Smith of the Tri-City Americans with the 14th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Smith is a highly mobile defenseman with elite skating, smooth stride mechanics, and explosive first steps. His four-way mobility and confident puckhandling allow him to navigate all zones effectively, supporting quick transitions and extending offensive possessions. Defensively, he excels in rush scenarios, using sharp footwork, active stick work, and timely physical engagement. Smith’s combination of athleticism, puck skill, and physical presence projects him as a dependable top-four defenseman with significant upside.

“With no real youthful core asides from Denton Mateychuk and Zach Werenski, and most of their youth coming offensively, Columbus select yet another left-shot defenseman to add to their pipeline. He’s a smooth skating blueliner with solid two-way game. To me, is the second-best lefthanded defenseman in this draft.” — FCHockey crossover scout Jonathan Cottone

15. Vancouver Canucks: Cole Reschny | C | Victoria (WHL) | FC Rank: 17

The Vancouver Canucks select Cole Reschny of the Victoria Royals with the 15th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Reschny is a highly skilled, intelligent center known for his direct offensive approach and strong presence in high-danger scoring areas. He excels in tight spaces with sharp edgework, quick feet, and reliable puck possession. A natural playmaker, he consistently threads precise passes through traffic and supports offensive zone time with patience and vision. Reschny’s smart positioning, effective penalty killing, and solid faceoff ability complement his well-rounded game, projecting him as a dependable middle-six, two-way contributor.

“Reschny is a Canucks target if I ever saw one. He’s, potentially, a longer-term second-line center for them, and is one of the best faceoff guys in this class while being extremely productive and being a difference-maker the second he steps on the ice. Really underrated player this year for me and one that could breakout sooner than people think.” — FCHockey chief European scout Samuel Tirpak

16. Montreal Canadiens (from CGY): Cameron Reid | D | Kitchener (OHL) | FC Rank: 13

The Montreal Canadiens select Cameron Reid of the Kitchener Rangers with the 16th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Reid is a poised, polished two-way defenseman with elite four-way mobility, exceptional hockey sense, and precise puck movement. His effortless skating, quick acceleration, and smooth edgework enable effective puck retrieval, pressure escape, and controlled transitions. Reid demonstrates smart decision-making under pressure, excels in transition play, and stabilizes the power play with vision and mobility. His strong positional awareness, active stick, and growing physical strength complement his reliable, mature presence, projecting him as a dependable top-four NHL blueliner.

“Montreal hasn’t been afraid to take chances on smaller defensemen and they land one whose two-way potential is as high as any available in this class. Reid’s high-end skating and awareness make him a potential top-four, all-situations defenseman in the NHL.” — FCHockey regional scout Joseph Aleong

17. Montreal Canadiens: Justin Carbonneau | RW | Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL) | FC Rank: 18

The Canadiens select Justin Carbonneau of the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada with the 17th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Carbonneau is a dynamic, offensive-minded winger known for his skill, speed, and high hockey IQ. His quick feet, fast hands, and sharp puck sense allow him to create time and space effectively. He excels at driving the net, weaving through traffic, and making intelligent off-puck movements. A dual-threat scorer and passer, Carbonneau possesses a quick-release shot and precise distribution. His strong puck protection, composure under pressure, and explosive north-south skating make him a consistent offensive threat with top-six potential.

“Carbonneau is one of the more creative finishers in the class, so the Canadiens take him to complement their impressive group of young forwards. There are questions about his consistency, but his scoring upside could make him the top-six winger Montreal needs in short order.” — FCHockey regional scout Joseph Aleong

18. Calgary Flames (from NJD): Braeden Cootes | C | Seattle (WHL) | FC Rank: 21

The Calgary Flames select Braeden Cootes of the Seattle Thunderbirds with the 18th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Cootes is a well-rounded, intelligent two-way center known for his consistent effort and high compete level. He excels in finding soft ice and creating high-quality scoring chances through smart, quick decisions and purposeful passing. His strong lower-body strength and balance support excellent puck protection and control in tight areas. Defensively responsible with active stick use, Cootes thrives on the penalty kill and exhibits powerful skating, effective transition play, and reliable physical engagement, projecting as a dependable middle-six center.

“Cootes is a logical addition to the Flames prospect pool that’s dying for a right-shot center. On top of that, he plays a game that fits the mold of the identity that Calgary is trying to build as a hard to play against team. Cootes doesn’t have the highest offensive upside in the draft, but there’s still enough skill there that opens the door for him being a potential future second-line guy.” — FCHockey regional scout Kareem Elshafey

19. St. Louis Blues: Ben Kindel | C | Calgary (WHL) | FC Rank: 19

The St. Louis Blues select Ben Kindel of the Calgary Hitmen with the 19th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Kindel is a skilled dual-threat forward known for his exceptional vision and playmaking, consistently delivering accurate, deceptive passes in all situations. He excels as a power-play quarterback and in transition, demonstrating poise and patience with the puck. His off-puck movement and timing create scoring opportunities, especially with dangerous one-timers and quick snapshots. Kindel’s strong puck protection, smart positioning, and reliable breakout skills, combined with high hockey IQ and compete level, project him as an effective middle-six winger.

“Kindel is a dynamic playmaker with elite vision, strong two-way instincts, and a high motor. He fits the Blues’ mold as a smart, versatile forward who can drive offense while playing within structure. His blend of creativity, compete, and hockey IQ makes him a strong fit for their system and future core. I think he will slot in nicely in the coming years to compliment Jake Neighbours or Dylan Holloway on the other wing. I could also see him blending well with Dalibor Dvorsky, too.” — FCHockey crossover scout Kohen Willis Dengler

20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from MIN): Cullen Potter | C | Arizona State (NCAA) | FC Rank: 9

The Blue Jackets select Cullen Potter of the Arizona State with the 16th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Potter is a dynamic forward whose elite skating, marked by explosive speed and agile edgework, drives his high-tempo game. He excels in transition, creating space with deceptive moves and quick hands to beat defenders or set up teammates. Despite his smaller stature, he competes fiercely in tight areas, using strong puck protection and relentless motor to sustain offensive pressure. Potter’s anticipation, vision, and energy make him a consistent threat and a valuable middle-six winger with special teams potential.

“Debated between a pair of forwards, but ultimately chose Potter due to his fast paced, driven play. There’s a bit of untapped offensive potential here and I think his fast paced, electrifying game suits the Columbus way of hockey.” — FCHockey crossover scout Jonathan Cottone

21. Ottawa Senators: Carter Bear | C | Everett (WHL) | FC Rank: 23

The Ottawa Senators select Carter Bear of the Everett Silvertips with the 21st pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Bear is a highly intelligent, two-way forward known for his elite hockey sense, strong skating, and competitive drive. His ability to read plays and find passing lanes under pressure highlights his playmaking skills. Bear’s combination of straight-line speed, agility, and edgework allows him to create separation and maintain relentless forechecking. He competes physically despite average size, winning puck battles and maintaining balance. Versatile and responsible, Bear excels in multiple roles, projecting as a reliable middle-six forward with strong positional awareness and work ethic.

“Bear’s two-way game and ability to battle for and retrieve pucks make him a perfect fit for the style of hockey the Senators like to play. With his unique mix of skill and grit, at this point in the draft, he is one of the few forwards I believe has some top-six upside. His skating and shooting have some room for improvement, but the rest of his skills all grade above average. He has a nice projectable floor with some room for growth.” — FCHockey crossover scout Jacob Roth

22. Philadelphia Flyers (from COL): Malcolm Spence | LW | Erie (OHL) | FC Rank: 22

The Flyers select Malcolm Spence of the Erie Otters with the 22nd pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Spence is a physically mature, two-way winger known for his powerful north-south skating, strong physicality, and responsible play in all zones. His long strides and solid edgework generate separation and maintain balance through contact. He excels in transition with high motor, effective puck protection, and strong board battles. Offensively, Spence combines a quick, accurate shot with smart playmaking and net-front presence. Defensively, he disrupts plays with active positioning and reach. His leadership, work ethic, and versatility project him as a dependable middle-six forward.

“The Flyers might need a defenseman with their second first-round selection, yet Spence is a fast and strong two-way winger who can play up and down the lineup and score in spurts. He also fits the playoffs playing style with his grit and compete.” — FCHockey chief Eastern scout Joey Fortin Boulay

23. Nashville Predators (from TBL): Logan Hensler | D | Wisconsin (NCAA) | FC Rank: 27

The Predators select Logan Hensler of Wisconsin with the 23rd pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Hensler is a mobile, two-way defenseman distinguished by his strong skating, intelligent positioning, and reliable transitional play. His fluid edgework, quick acceleration, and lateral agility enable tight defensive gaps and efficient movement in all directions. He consistently initiates offense with accurate, well-timed passes and controlled breakouts. Trusted in key situations like penalty kills, Hensler plays a mature, low-risk game, using his reach and composure to disrupt plays. He projects as a dependable top-four blueliner with a stabilizing presence.

“Nashville is excellent at developing defenders and having a potential future shutdown blueliner like Hensler be available is a no-brainer in this spot. He’s an excellent puck-mover with great all-around hockey IQ — perfect for what Nashville seeks.” — FCHockey chief European scout Samuel Tirpak

24. Los Angeles Kings: Sascha Boumedienne | D | Boston University (NCAA) | FC Rank: 31

The Los Angeles Kings select Sascha Boumedienne of Boston University with the 24th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Boumedienne is a mobile, offensively skilled defenseman with elite skating, advanced puck-moving, and a strong competitive edge. His quick acceleration and lateral agility allow him to create separation and drive play in transition. He excels in the offensive zone with confident blue-line play, accurate passing, and a quick-release wrist shot and powerful one-timer. His hockey sense is advanced, enabling him to quarterback power plays effectively. Boumedienne projects as a top-four NHL defenseman with special teams upside.

“The Kings are not far from being a contender once again. With a lot of talent up front and not a lot of depth to their blue line I can see Boumedienne filling that gap nicely. He provides solid defensive and physical play as a reliable minute eater, something the Kings will need to have considering Doughty’s inevitable decline from that role.” — FCHockey scout Jake Janso

25. Chicago Blackhawks (from TOR): Alexander Zharovsky | RW | Tolpar Ufa (MHL) | FC Rank: 41

The Blackhawks select Alexander Zharovsky of Tolpar Ufa with the 25th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Zharovsky is a dynamic, highly skilled forward known for elite puck handling and offensive creativity. His exceptional hands allow him to break down defenders and extend offensive plays with fluid puck control. He displays advanced vision, threading precise passes to teammates in scoring areas, and excels near the net with confident, physical play. On the power play, his quick, accurate shot and playmaking make him a constant threat. His natural glide and lateral quickness keep defenders off balance, projecting him as a high-upside offensive talent.

“With the amount of young players who are about to be NHL ready for the Blackhawks, selecting a project winger with a high-end skill set makes a lot of sense. Zharovsky can spend a few years developing his game with no rush of being pushed into the NHL too early. High upside bet with an obvious development path.” — FCHockey crossover scout Nathan Hutchinson

26. Nashville Predators (from VGK): Joshua Ravensbergen | G | Prince George (WHL) | FC Rank: 30

The Predators select Joshua Ravensbergen of the Prince George Cougars with the 26th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Ravensbergen is an athletic, technically sound goaltender known for his size, speed, and poise. His powerful footwork and fluid lateral movement enable him to track plays efficiently and challenge shooters aggressively. He demonstrates excellent positioning, angle control, and anticipation, consistently protecting key areas of the net. His calm demeanor, sharp reflexes, and strong upper-body coverage make difficult saves look routine. Ravensbergen’s blend of athleticism, balance, and mental toughness projects him as a high-ceiling, reliable netminder.

“Nashville revamped their goaltending depth last summer and are one of the teams looking to get their future starting goaltender in this year’s class of netminders, which is both deep and high in quality. To me, Ravensbergen is not as highly-ranked as some of his peers from across the pond, but he makes the most sense for Nashville, in my opinion.” — FCHockey chief European scout Samuel Tirpak

27. Washington Capitals: Kurban Limatov | D | MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL) | FC Rank: 25

The Washington Capitals select Kurban Limatov of MHK Dynamo Moskva with the 27th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Limatov is a big, mobile defenseman with a modern two-way game, combining physicality, skill, and poise. His powerful skating stride enables quick transitions and effective defense against speed. He plays calmly under pressure, delivering crisp breakout passes and smart puck movement. Limatov’s long reach, strength in board battles, and strong gap control disrupt plays early. Offensively, he confidently quarterbacks breakouts, joins rushes, and provides secondary scoring with vision and soft hands. His versatility and hockey IQ make him a reliable, competitive player capable of logging heavy minutes and excelling in various roles.

“The Capitals have a plethora of quality young forwards up top, using their past five first-rounders on wingers and centers. Adding a defenseman to the stable that has size, skating, and a modern profile checks a lot of boxes for Washington’s prospect pool.” — FCHockey crossover scout Aaron Vickers

28. Winnipeg Jets: Jack Nesbitt | C | Windsor (OHL) | FC Rank: 24

The Winnipeg Jets select Jack Nesbitt of the Windsor Spitfires with the 28th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Nesbitt is a towering, two-way power forward known for his physicality, hockey intelligence, and offensive skill. He uses his size and reach effectively to win puck battles, protect possession, and disrupt opponents. His skating features smooth strides and solid edgework, allowing him to navigate traffic efficiently. Offensively, he possesses slick hands, a quick, powerful shot, and good vision, especially in transition. Defensively, Nesbitt is reliable, reads the game well, supports teammates, and applies strong forechecking pressure.

“Winnipeg has a need to add impactful, young forwards to their aging lineup. Nesbitt is a big bodied, two-way forward with strong middle-six potential. The Jets are happy to see this player fall to them at the 28th overall pick and will be excited to see how his development continues over the next two seasons.” — FCHockey regional scout Mike Kennedy

29. Carolina Hurricanes: Cole McKinney | C | USA U-18 (NTDP) | FC Rank: 20

The Carolina Hurricanes select Cole McKinney of the National Development Program with the 29th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

McKinney is a smart, competitive two-way center known for his high hockey IQ, versatility, and consistent effort across all zones. He excels in transition with intelligent skating, sharp stickhandling, and soft hands that create space under pressure. His puck protection, quick shot release, and physical engagement around the net add value offensively and defensively. McKinney’s strong positioning, active stick on the penalty kill, and faceoff prowess make him a trusted, reliable middle-six center at the professional level.

“Carolina always takes the smart players who are extremely detailed in their approach. They love these types. And knowing McKinney’s detail goes into heavy defensive work is even more enticing. He’s easily a future middle-six shutdown center.” — FCHockey chief European scout Samuel Tirpak

30. San Jose Sharks (from DAL): Blake Fiddler | D | Edmonton (WHL) | FC Rank: 32

The Sharks select Blake Fiddler of the Edmonton Oil Kings with the 30th pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Fiddler is a physically imposing, right-shot defenseman known for his strong defensive acumen, reach, and physical engagement. His excellent gap control, smart angling, and active stick disrupt plays effectively in rush defense. Offensively, he offers a quick, powerful, and accurate point shot, creating scoring chances from the blue line. Calm under pressure, Fiddler demonstrates poise in breakouts and reliable transitional play, projecting as a dependable, two-way second-pair defenseman with growing confidence.

“Fiddler adds some size and stout defense to the Sharks’ prospect pool. At the 30th pick, I think Fiddler is a perfect piece to the puzzle here, as he has a pretty clear pathway to being a viable NHL defender. He’s got the size, skating, and defensive awareness to make an impact sooner than most other blueliners available at this slot.” — FCHockey chief goaltending scout David Phillips

31. Philadelphia Flyers (from EDM): Will Horcoff | C | Michigan (NCAA) | FC Rank: 29

The Flyers select Will Horcoff of Michigan with the 31st pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Horcoff is a big-bodied, physical winger known for his strength, puck protection, and hockey sense. He excels in cycle play, using his frame and reach to maintain possession and create offensive opportunities, especially below the hashmarks and at the net front. His heavy, accurate shot and functional hands allow him to finish effectively. Defensively, he displays sound habits and relentless forechecking. Horcoff’s intelligence, tenacity, and physicality project him as a reliable middle-six forward with power-play potential.

“Having missed out on some defensemen, the Flyers can’t afford to pass on Horcoff — a towering center who rose up draft boards late in the season and projects as a promising middle-six power forward. While he remains more of a long-term project, the investment could pay dividends for Philadelphia in a few years.” — FCHockey chief Eastern scout Joey Fortin Boulay

32. Calgary Flames (from FLA): Milton Gastrin | C | MoDo (J20 Nationell) | FC Rank: 36

The Flames select Milton Gastrin of MoDo with the 32nd pick of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Gastrin is a highly intelligent, well-rounded center known for his structure, effort, and consistent two-way play. He demonstrates elite spatial awareness, calm decision-making, and strong defensive positioning. Offensively, he is effective around the net, screens goalies, battles for rebounds, and distributes the puck efficiently with a quick, accurate release. Gastrin’s solid skating, competitive edge, and reliability make him a dependable middle-six NHL prospect and a versatile, coach-trusted player in all situations.

“With their second pick in the first round, the Flames take another center in Gastrin, a good skater, despite a unique skating stride, who plays a well rounded game that’s hard on opponents. Getting out of the first round with a pair of centers would be ideal.” — FCHockey regional scout Kareem Elshafey