The first 28 picks of the 2025 NHL Draft have been officially finalized following the conclusion of the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. This year’s draft, set to be held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 27–28, is shaping up to be one of the most talent-rich and strategically significant in recent memory.
Islanders Win First Overall Pick
In a surprising lottery result, the New York Islanders won the first overall selection despite having only a 3.5 percent chance of doing so. This is the franchise’s first top overall pick since 2009, when they selected John Tavares. With a strong class of elite prospects available, the Islanders are in a position to make a major long-term impact.
Complete 2025 NHL Draft Order: Picks 1–28
| Pick 1–10 | Pick 11–19 | Pick 20–28 |
|---|---|---|
| New York Islanders | Pittsburgh Penguins | Ottawa Senators |
| San Jose Sharks | New York Rangers | Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado Avalanche) |
| Chicago Blackhawks | Detroit Red Wings | Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning) |
| Utah Mammoth | Columbus Blue Jackets | Los Angeles Kings |
| Nashville Predators | Vancouver Canucks | Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs) |
| Philadelphia Flyers | Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames) | Nashville Predators (from Vegas Golden Knights via San Jose Sharks) |
| Boston Bruins | Montreal Canadiens | Washington Capitals |
| Seattle Kraken | Calgary Flames (from New Jersey Devils) | Winnipeg Jets |
| Buffalo Sabres | St. Louis Blues | |
| Anaheim Ducks | Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota Wild) |
Draft Capital Highlights
The Nashville Predators are among the most notable teams heading into the draft, with three first-round picks at positions 5, 23, and 26. The Columbus Blue Jackets also have two picks inside the top 20. The Montreal Canadiens will pick consecutively at 16 and 17, offering them a unique opportunity to make a strong impact.
These teams could become major players on draft day, either by selecting elite young talent or by leveraging their picks in trade discussions.
Top Prospects to Watch
The 2025 NHL Draft class is stacked with high-potential talent. Here are some of the most highly rated prospects expected to be selected early:
- Matthew Schaefer (D) – Erie Otters (OHL): A poised, two-way defenseman with elite skating and high hockey IQ.
- Michael Misa (C) – Saginaw Spirit (OHL): A dynamic forward with speed, vision, and offensive creativity.
- James Hagens (C) – Boston College: A high-end playmaker with excellent puck control and leadership ability.
Each of these players could easily become foundational pieces for their respective franchises.
Final Four Picks Pending
While the top 28 picks are now set, the final four selections (29–32) will be determined by the results of the ongoing Stanley Cup Playoffs. These picks will be assigned based on the outcomes of the Conference Finals and Stanley Cup Final.
What to Expect Moving Forward
As the NHL calendar moves closer to draft weekend, expect to see teams exploring trade possibilities and finalizing their prospect rankings. Teams with multiple picks, such as Nashville, Montreal, and Columbus, could drive the action on the draft floor.
With a strong pool of talent and several franchises in critical rebuilding phases, the 2025 NHL Draft promises to be both strategic and impactful.
