The 2025 NHL Draft commenced with the New York Islanders selecting Canadian defenseman Matthew Schaefer of the Erie Otters as the first overall pick. The event marks a significant milestone for emerging hockey talent as teams make strategic decisions to shape their future rosters.
The New Jersey Devils will not participate in the first round, having traded their pick to the Calgary Flames in a previous deal involving Jacob Markstrom. Instead, they hold two second-round picks (50th and 63rd overall), one third-round pick (90th overall), two fourth-round picks (99th and 114th overall), and two sixth-round picks (161st and 178th overall).
Several trades occurred during the draft’s opening round. The Pittsburgh Penguins, initially holding the No. 12 pick, traded down with the Philadelphia Flyers, receiving the 22nd and 31st overall picks in return. Montreal moved its picks at 16 and 17, along with forward Emil Heineman, to acquire defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders. Meanwhile, Ottawa exchanged its 21st overall pick with Nashville for both the 23rd and 67th selections. The Los Angeles Kings also engaged in trade activity by sending their No. 24 pick to Pittsburgh for selections at No. 31 and No. 59.
The draft continued with various teams selecting promising players from different leagues worldwide. San Jose chose Michael Misa from Saginaw Spirit as their second pick, while Chicago selected Swedish player Anton Frondell from Djurgårdens at third.
Fans are encouraged to follow developments throughout the weekend as more selections unfold.
