Recaping 2025 NHL Draft

The de-centralized 2025 NHL Draft commenced with the first round on June 27, showcasing top prospects eager to join the league. The 2nd through 7th rounds took place on June 28th, completing the re-stocking of each teams prospect pool. Here are some interesting takeaways…

The 2025 NHL Draft saw a mix of Canadian and international talent, with the New York Islanders leading the pack with their selection of Matthew Schaefer, a near-consensus top overall pick. The draft also included notable international players such as Michael Misa, who is projected to be a future franchise cornerstone. The draft was marked by surprises and memorable moments, including celebrity guests making picks and the first “decentralized” draft.

Here are some of the notable figures who participated in the draft picks:

• Adam Sandler: As ‘Happy Gilmore’, Sandler announced a pick for the Boston Bruins.¹
• Lu Dort: The NBA champion made a surprise trade announcement during the draft.¹
• Charles Barkley: Barkley announced the selection of Porter Martone for the Philadelphia Flyers.²
• Brandon Graham: Graham announced the selection of Jack Nesbitt for the Philadelphia Flyers.²
• Kris Letang: Letang and his son Alex helped select Benjamin Kindel for the Pittsburgh Penguins.²
• Nikki Glaser: Glaser announced the selection of the St. Louis Blues.²
• Jeremy Roenick: Roenick announced the selection of Anton Frondell for the Chicago Blackhawks.¹
• Shea Weber: Weber announced the selection of Brady Martin for the Nashville Predators.¹
• Dave Coulier: Coulier announced the selection of the Detroit Red Wings.

Another interesting anecdote is the strong presence of Canadian Hockey. No country develops hockey players quite like Canada.

In total, more than one-third of the players who had their names called in Los Angeles – 85 of 224 – hail from north of the border. Canadian hockey front and centre at 2025 NHL Draft

So… were you please with your teams selections?

By Andrew Trimble