The 2025 NHL Draft is just around the corner, and excitement is building as teams prepare for a transformative summer. The New York Islanders found themselves on the receiving end of a stroke of luck, winning the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Along with the Islanders, other teams are gearing up to make strategic selections as they look to bolster their rosters for the future. Here’s a breakdown of the first 16 picks in our 2025 NHL Mock Draft.
1. New York Islanders: Matthew Schaefer, LHD, Erie (OHL)
When the Islanders secured the No. 1 spot in the draft lottery, the world seemed to hold its breath. Long Island native James Hagens may have seemed like the natural choice to lead the Islanders’ rebuilding efforts. However, with the team mired in uncertainty and the lack of a general manager, the smart move appears to be investing in a cornerstone defenseman. Enter Matthew Schaefer.
Arthur Staple, an expert in Islanders coverage, believes Schaefer is the perfect fit, stating, “Schaefer is the consensus pick here and you can’t go against that, not if you’re in need of some big changes as the Islanders are.” Schaefer’s ability to anchor the blue line could be exactly what the team needs as it looks to turn things around.
2. San Jose Sharks: Michael Misa, C, Saginaw (OHL)
The San Jose Sharks may not have had the same luck as last year’s top pick, Macklin Celebrini, but their selection of Michael Misa at No. 2 is still a stellar move. Misa, a center for the Saginaw Spirit, is a highly-touted prospect known for his chemistry with last year’s second-round pick, Igor Chernyshov.
Sharks GM Mike Grier praised Misa’s abilities, calling him “a talented, talented player.” His scoring prowess and leadership skills will be invaluable as the Sharks continue to build for the future.
3. Chicago Blackhawks: Porter Martone, RW, Brampton (OHL)
The Blackhawks have been building up their skill set in recent drafts, but one area they’ve lacked is size. Enter Porter Martone, a power forward who could be the perfect complement to their already impressive young core. According to Scott Powers, the Blackhawks have drafted plenty of skilled forwards in the past, but Martone’s combination of size and skill makes him a valuable asset for the team.
Martone could be the top-line winger the Blackhawks need to elevate their offensive game, and with the likes of Connor Bedard leading the charge, he’s a solid addition to the team’s arsenal.
4. Utah Hockey Club: Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton (QMJHL)
Utah Hockey Club’s rise in the draft lottery gives them a prime opportunity to add a high-end prospect to their ranks. The selection of Caleb Desnoyers, a big, two-way center from Moncton, is exactly what the team needs. Max Bultman, a seasoned hockey writer, believes Desnoyers will be a great fit for Utah’s long-term plans.
With his impressive scoring ability and defensive prowess, Desnoyers could form a dynamic duo alongside Logan Cooley, providing Utah with one of the most exciting young cores in the league.
5. Nashville Predators: James Hagens, C, Boston College
The Nashville Predators have long sought a premium skill forward, and with their highest pick since drafting Seth Jones in 2013, they’re finally in a position to secure one. Enter James Hagens, a standout center for Boston College. Scott Wheeler, an NHL expert, states that Hagens is the most talented forward the Predators have ever drafted, and his skill set could be a game-changer for the team.
For a franchise in need of offensive firepower, Hagens could be the next American star in Nashville, helping to elevate the team’s playmaking ability.
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