2025 NHL Draft 1st-round tracker, analysis 

LOS ANGELES -- Welcome to the first round of the 2025 Upper Deck NHL Draft. A total of 32 young men had their hockey futures determined on Friday. NHL.com Draft guru Adam Kimelman was there to provide analysis and insight for all 32 picks in NHL.com's first-round draft tracker:

1. New York Islanders -- Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 1 (North American skaters)

Schaefer (6-2, 186) became the fifth defenseman to be selected No. 1 dating to 2006. He had 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) and was plus-21 in 17 games for Erie this season. He averaged 1.29 points per game, ranking third among Ontario Hockey League defensemen in 2024-25 (minimum 15 games) and best among draft-eligible defensemen. The 17-year-old had surgery Dec. 30 after sustaining a broken clavicle three days earlier while playing for Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa. He has been cleared for contact by doctors since May 1 and participated in all the testing at the NHL Scouting Combine except bench press and pullups. Schaefer lost his mother, Jennifer, after a two-year battle with breast cancer in February 2024. Two months prior to that, his billet mom, Emily Matson, died in an apparent suicide. He is the second Erie player to be selected No. 1 in the NHL Draft (Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers, 2015). McDavid had been the last OHL player to be taken with the first pick.

"Matthew Schaefer is the No. 1 defense prospect in this draft class," Central Scouting director Dan Marr said. "He is the complete package playing a dynamic style that generates results and influences the outcome of games. Schaefer easily projects as a future All-Star in the NHL."

NHL.com analysis: The Islanders take the no-question best player available in Schaefer, a defenseman capable of playing on the top pair and in all situations. With Noah Dobson getting traded to the Montreal Canadiens on Friday, Schaefer should have the chance to pick up some of his ice time. Forget the fact that he only played 17 OHL games in his draft year. As Central Scouting assistant director David Gregory said before the combine, "Having the discussions with other staffs and teams and asking if they needed to see more of Matthew Schaefer, it was pretty much consensus no. They know what they're seeing and I'm pretty confident he will go No. 1." It could have been a tough decision to not select Boston College center and Long Island native James Hagens, No. 3 on Central Scouting's final ranking of North American skaters, but Schaefer clearly was the marquee player of this year's draft class for play on the ice and electric personality off of it. A projected top four on defense of Schaefer, Adam Pelech, Ryan Pulock and Alexander Romanov would provide a pretty solid foundation for a return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

2. San Jose Sharks -- Michael Misa, C, Saginaw (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 2 (North American skaters)

Misa (6-1, 182) was named the winner of the E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence, presented annually "to the NHL Draft prospect who best exemplifies commitment to excellence through strength of character, competitiveness and athleticism." He also was named Smartest Player in the Western Conference in the OHL coaches' poll after becoming the first player in Saginaw history to win the Red Tilson Trophy as the league’s most outstanding player and the Eddie Powers Trophy as the top scorer in the OHL, finishing the regular season with 134 points (62 goals, 72 assists). The Saginaw captain had at least one point in 60 of 65 regular-season games and tied John Tavares (2006-07) for the most points by an OHL player under 18 since 2000 (Misa turned 18 on Feb. 16). His style of play has been compared to that of Nashville Predators center Steven Stamkos. Misa was granted exceptional player status to enter the OHL as a 15-year-old and helped Saginaw win the Memorial Cup in 2023-24. His brother, forward Luke Misa, is 14 months older and was chosen by the Calgary Flames in the fifth round (No. 150) of the 2024 draft. Luke will play for Penn State in 2025-26.

"He's the type of player that, if there's a man in a better position for a scoring opportunity and if the proper read is to get the puck to that man, he'll do it," Central Scouting’s Nick Smith said of Michael. "And he does it with such quickness and elite hockey sense that it's just great to watch."

NHL.com analysis: After selecting Macklin Celebrini with the first pick of the 2024 NHL Draft, Misa gives the Sharks' center depth an instant boost. The Sharks now will have the option of keeping Will Smith on a line with Celebrini after their chemistry grew throughout the season, or shift Smith to center and have Misa play on the wing, something he did during his first two OHL seasons. The Sharks have averaged 2.37 goals per game the past two seasons, the fewest in the NHL. But now adding Misa to Celebrini, Smith and William Eklund, as well as top prospects Igor Chernyshov (2024, No. 33), Quentin Musty (2023, No. 26) and Kasper Halttunen (2023, No. 36), and it shouldn't be long before the Sharks turn around their offensive fortunes in a big way.

3. Chicago Blackhawks -- Anton Frondell, C, Djurgarden (SWE-2)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 1 (International skaters)

Frondell (6-1, 204) started the season with Djurgarden's junior team and had seven points (five goals, two assists) in 10 games, but quickly was promoted to Allsvenskan, Sweden's second division, and averaged nearly a point per game with 25 points (11 goals, 14 assists) in 29 games to finish with the second-most points ever by a player aged 17 or younger in Sweden's second division (behind William Nylander in 2013-14). Frondell had a standout performance on the two stationary bike tests at the NHL Scouting Combine, lasting 14:00 on the Vo2 Max bike test, which measures endurance and recovery. His peak power output of 16.8 watts of power per kilogram of body weight on the Wingate test was tied for second with forward Arvid Drott from Djurgarden's team in Sweden's junior league. He’s been compared by some to New York Rangers forward J.T. Miller.

"Some minor injuries slowed [Frondell] a bit during the early season but he's a strong skater, skilled, and a two-way player," NHL Director of European Scouting Jukka-Pekka Vuorinen said.

NHL.com analysis: One scout compared Frondell to a "military tank" because of how hard and determined he plays. He also has high-end offensive skills. He'll spend at least one more season in Sweden after helping Djurgarden earn promotion to the Swedish Hockey League, but when he does come to the NHL, he'll be a fantastic complement through the middle to Connor Bedard and be another key piece to a team that started to have some of its young talent gel together down the stretch.

4. Utah Mammoth -- Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton (QMJHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 7 (North American skaters)

The 18-year-old left-handed shot, compared to New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier, tied for fifth in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League with 84 points (35 goals, 49 assists) in 56 games. Desnoyers, a versatile, two-way player who can contribute a variety of ways, had a 15-game point streak (27 points; 12 goals, 15 assists), the third-longest by a QMJHL player this season. He won the Paul-Dumont Trophy at the QMJHL's personality of the year since he was in the spotlight from the beginning of the season and acted as an excellent ambassador for the league. He was awarded the 2025 Guy Lafleur Trophy as MVP of the QMJHL playoffs after he had 30 points (nine goals, 21 assists) in 19 games to lead Moncton to the league championship. His 30 points were tied with Jonathan Huberdeau (Calgary Flames) for fourth-most in the QMJHL playoffs since 2000. His hockey IQ is very good and he has a good sense of anticipation and high-end offensive skills with his vision and feel for the game. Desnoyers' brother, Elliot Desnoyers, was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the fifth round (No. 135) of the 2020 NHL Draft. Desnoyers revealed at the NHL Scouting Combine presented by Fanatics earlier this month that he's still awaiting word on some scans for injuries he sustained to both of his wrists. He doesn't know the timeline of recovery.

NHL.com analysis: With Logan Cooley looking like a legitimate No. 1 NHL center, Desnoyers gives them a smart, skilled, 200-foot player who can drive a second line. He projects to be a high-end offensive producer who will be defensively responsible. Tij Iginla (No. 6) and Cole Beaudoin (No. 24) were selected in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft as centers, but each has played the wing and could play there when they reach the NHL to give the Mammoth even more forward depth. Desnoyers drove Moncton to the Memorial Cup despite playing most of the season with a nagging wrist injury. He'll be healthy enough for a solid offseason of training and an even better season in 2025-26.

5. Nashville Predators -- Brady Martin, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 11 (North American skaters)

Martin (6-foot, 186) established himself as a top-line center, playing big minutes and in all situations this season. He was voted "Hardest Worker" in the Western Conference in the OHL coaches' poll, and tied for fifth among all skaters with 11 points (three goals, eight assists) for gold medal-winning Canada at the 2025 U-18 Worlds. The right-handed shot enjoys playing a physical style but also a responsible 200-foot game. He had 72 points (33 goals, 39 assists), eight power-play goals, and three short-handed goals in 57 OHL games. Martin is described by NHL Central Scouting as "a player who checks all the boxes and has no holes in his game." The Martin family owns a beef ranch/farm on the outskirts of Elmira, Ontario, and since the age of 12, Brady has worked on the ranch, feeding and laying out fresh bedding for their 40-plus cows and calves.

NHL.com analysis: The Predators have struggled for most of their existence to find a young center they can draft and develop, and Martin could be the player to change that mold. He doesn't have typical power forward size but he plays a hard, physical game with the skill to be second for Sault Ste. Marie in scoring this season. And he's no stranger to hard work; Martin's farm duties kept him from attending the draft in person. And he grew up knowing work came before play, so much so that he build a gym in one of the barns so he could get a workout in whenever he had time.

6. Philadelphia Flyers -- Porter Martone, RW, Brampton (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 6 (North American skaters)

The 18-year-old right wing (6-3, 204) was tied for seventh in the OHL with 98 points (37 goals, 61 assists) in 57 games and tied for fourth with seven game-winning goals. He was voted Best Shootout Shooter in the OHL Eastern Conference in the 2024-25 OHL coaches’ poll after going 2-for-2 this season, with each goal deciding the game. His compete level and will to win are off the charts and, combined with his big frame and skill, make him one of the top forward prospects in this draft. He can play any type of game with his elite hockey sense, allowing him to slow the game down to the pace he chooses. The Brampton captain brings great puck skills and hands to take advantage of the time and space he creates, can play physical and backs it up. He had nine points (four goals, five assists) in six OHL playoff games for Brampton, which lost to Oshawa in the first round. His father, defenseman Mike Martone, was a fourth-round pick (No. 106) by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1996 NHL Draft.

NHL.com analysis: The Flyers have a need for center but with Martone available, they couldn't pass on the best power forward in this year's draft. Martone has a game that's been compared by scouts to Edmonton Oilers forward Corey Perry and Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk. Philadelphia has skill on the wing, led by Matvei Michkov, Travis Konecny, Tyson Foerster and Owen Tippett, but they lack size and strength up front. Martone projects to brings a solid mix of production and nastiness that should make him the ideal Flyer.

7. Boston Bruins -- James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 3 (North American skaters)

Hagens, whose playmaking ability and skating resemble Clayton Keller of the Utah Mammoth, was third on Boston College with 37 points (11 goals, 26 assists) in 37 games skating as the No. 1 center between Gabe Perreault (New York Rangers) and Ryan Leonard (Washington Capitals). He also tied for the United States lead with five goals in seven games to help his country win the gold medal at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship. Born in Hauppauge, New York, Hagens was the fourth-youngest player in college hockey and ranked fourth among NCAA Division I freshmen in points, earning a spot on the Hockey East All-Rookie Team. In 2023-24, he led USA Hockey's National Team Development Program Under-18 team with 63 assists, 102 points and 1.76 points per game in 58 games. Hagens looks to become the highest-drafted player out of Boston College. Defenseman Noah Hanifin is the only player from BC to be chosen among the top five in the NHL Draft (Carolina Hurricanes, No. 5, 2015 NHL Draft).

NHL.com analysis: The Bruins didn't have to look far to find a future No. 1 center in Hagens, the Boston College star who was a point-per-game player as an 18-year-old college freshman this season. The Bruins have struggled to find consistency through the middle since Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci retired, but Hagens has the elite skill, skating and hockey IQ to change that, and he should be even better next season with a solid summer of physical development. Boston did well with its first top-10 pick since 2011.

8. Seattle Kraken -- Jake O'Brien, C, Brantford (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 4 (North American skaters)

O'Brien (6-2, 177) was named Smartest Player in the Eastern Conference in the OHL coaches' poll after he had 98 points (32 goals, 66 assists) in 66 regular-season games with Brantford, finishing tied for seventh in the league in assists and points. Possessing great hockey sense and a natural ability to see the ice and quickly read situations, the right-handed shot led the OHL with 41 power-play assists. He had two hat tricks and 14 games with three or more points to help Brantford (44-19-5) finish first in the Eastern Conference. O'Brien, who turned 18 on June 16, had 11 points (three goals, eight assists) in 11 OHL playoff games; Brantford lost to Oshawa in the second round in six games. He won MVP honors for Team East in its overtime win in the inaugural OHL Connor McDavid Top Prospects Game, getting three assists. He won the Emms Family Award as OHL rookie of the year in 2023-24 after he had 64 points (13 goals, 51 assists) in 61 games, including 19 multipoint games.

NHL.com analysis: The Kraken select a center with their first pick for the fourth time in five years. What separates O'Brien is how he got better as the season went along, which really impressed scouts. His hockey IQ and playmaking ability is among the best in this year's draft, and his hockey bloodlines are strong. His mother, Amy, played for the Canadian women's national team as well as in the National Women's Hockey League, and for a time ran a hockey school. A future in Seattle with Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, Berkly Catton and now O'Brien gives the Kraken outstanding depth through middle. Someone might have to move to the wing at a certain point, but it will be a nice problem to have.

9. Buffalo Sabres -- Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 5 (North American skaters)

Mrtka (6-6, 218) began the season with one assist in 10 games with Trinec in the top professional league in his native Czechia, then signed with Seattle on Nov. 27. He made quite an impression with 35 points (three goals, 32 assists) in 43 WHL games. He split the 2023-24 season between Trinec's Under-17 team and its junior club. Mrtka is a mobile, strong skater with good acceleration and speed for a player of his stature. He plays with confidence, makes life difficult on opposing forwards with his long reach and can generate shots from the back end, especially on the power play.

NHL.com analysis: The Sabres already have defense as a strength with two No. 1 NHL draft picks there in Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. But Mrtka brings a very different skill set with his right-handed shot and growing abilities. Mrtka only has taken hockey seriously for about three years, but he's already developed enough to be a top-10 NHL draft pick, with more still to grow. Mrtka projects to be a top-four defenseman who can play on the power play and be an elite defensive player because of his skating and reach.

10. Anaheim Ducks -- Roger McQueen, C, Brandon (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 8 (North American skaters)

McQueen (6-5, 198) missed 51 games because of a fracture in the L4 and L5 vertebrae in his back but had at least a point in 71 percent of games played, finishing with the highest points-per-game average on his team (1.18; 20 points, 10 goals, 10 assists in 17 games). He performed all the testing at the NHL Scouting Combine, placing eighth in the horizontal jump at 112.8 inches. McQueen also had a 20.7-inch vertical jump, did nine pullups and completed the pro agility 20-yard shuttle run, finishing in 4.50 seconds starting to his left and 4.49 seconds starting to his right. He's got size, a big shot and a deft scoring touch to complement an extremely good motor. Perhaps most impressive for a player his stature is his playmaking and touch with the puck to finesse it through tight spots. McQueen won gold with Canada at the 2024 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. His father, Scott, was a defenseman in the WHL with Red Deer and Saskatoon, and had 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in 88 games (1997-2000).

NHL.com analysis: McQueen was one of the wild cards of this year's draft. His skill is among the best in this year's class, and his size and shot make him even more appealing. But missing five months of the season because of a fracture in the L4/L5 vertebrae left him a question mark; it actually was a two-year issue after the injury initially was misdiagnosed as a herniated disc. But McQueen said the break is fully healed, and he was able to play late in the season and during the WHL playoffs and was a full participant in the fitness testing at the NHL Scouting Combine. The Ducks had Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish as their top two centers this season, but McTavish will be a restricted free agent if not signed by Tuesday, and Trevor Zegras was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers last week. Back injuries can be tricky, but the Ducks clearly feel confident that McQueen is worth the gamble.

11. Pittsburgh Penguins -- Benjamin Kindel, C, Calgary (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 21 (North American skaters)

Kindel (5-10, 180) was seventh in the Western Hockey League with 99 points (35 goals, 64 assists) in 65 games this season, and led Calgary with 15 points (eight goals, seven assists) in 11 WHL playoff games. He was named a WHL Eastern Conference First Team All-Star, and his 23-game point streak (45 points; 15 goals, 30 assists) from Nov. 8-Jan. 12 was the second-longest in the league during the regular season, behind forward Gavin McKenna (40 games) of Medicine Hat, the projected No. 1 pick of the 2026 NHL Draft. He's smart and versatile and projects to be a player who can deliver in all situations.

NHL.com analysis: The Penguins need as much young talent as they can find and Kindel is a good place to start adding talent. He projects to be a center who can play on the top two lines with high-end hockey IQ and playmaking ability. As Pittsburgh looks ahead to a time when Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin aren't the focal points, Kindel should be a good part of what the Penguins build around moving forward.

12. Philadelphia Flyers -- Jack Nesbitt, C, Windsor (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 15 (North American skaters)

Nesbitt (6-4, 186) compares his style to that of Dallas Stars forward Jamie Benn, stressing his physicality, playmaking and hockey sense as his strongest attributes. He was named Most Improved Player in the Western Conference in the OHL coaches' poll, ranking fifth on Windsor with 64 points (25 goals, 39 assists) in 65 regular-season games. He contributed on the power play (six goals) and penalty kill (two goals) and won 51.4 percent of his face-offs. In 12 OHL playoff games, he had 10 points (one goal, nine assists), including six power-play assists, and won 49.8 percent of his face-offs. Nesbitt had a Gordie Howe Hat Trick in the 2025 Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game, when he had a goal and an assist, and engaged in a fight.

NHL.com analysis: And the Flyers find their center, trading picks No. 22 and No. 31 to the Penguins for the chance to move up and choose Nesbitt. He might have been overlooked a bit on a loaded Windsor team, but Nesbitt was a big reason behind the team's success. He nearly was a point-per-game player who scouts thought got better as the season went along. He's got the size the Flyers need, and they like the grind and toughness he brings. Nesbitt still needs to fill out physically, but when he gets there he projects to be a load for opposing teams to handle with solid offensive gifts.

13. Detroit Red Wings -- Carter Bear, LW, Everett (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 10 (North American skaters)

Bear (6-foot, 179) tied for seventh in the Western Hockey League with 40 goals in 56 games, and he also led Everett with 82 points and 14 power-play goals despite sustaining a partially torn Achilles tendon on March 9. The 18-year-old, who is on track to be fully cleared by September, is well-regarded for his skill, work ethic and maturity, and he can also play center or on the wing.

NHL.com analysis: Bear said he's ahead of pace in his recovery from surgery for his Achilles injury and should be ready for training camp, but with how the Red Wings like to bring their prospect along slowly, that shouldn't be an issue. Bear has dynamic offensive skills and the versatility to play center or the wing. Away from the game, his maturity and coachability are standout characteristics. He should be able to join Lucas Raymond, Marco Kasper and fellow top prospects Nate Danielson (2023, No. 9) and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard (2024, No. 15) as big pieces of the Red Wings scoring attack in the not-too-distant future.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets -- Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 13 (North American skaters)

Among WHL defensemen, Smith (6-4, 199) tied for ninth in assists (43) and ranked 10th in points (54) while averaging more than 22 minutes of ice time in 68 games with Tri-City this season. He played in all situations, had 17 power-play points (four goals, 13 assists) and scored four game-winning goals. Smith tied Xavier Villeneuve, eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, for most goals (four) by a defenseman for gold medal-winning Canada at the 2025 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. Elusive for his size, he’s able to skate the puck out of the defensive zone and move it down the ice. Smith has a good stick and a commitment to defend first.

NHL.com analysis: The Blue Jackets opt for a big, talented, right-shot defenseman with the first of their two first-round picks. With left-shot Denton Mateychuk just beginning his NHL career, Smith could be a nice complement with his high-skill offensive game, strong skating and the size needed to be an effective player in the defensive zone. And it won't be hard for Blue Jackets management to keep tabs on him while he's playing at Penn State University next season.

15. Vancouver Canucks -- Braeden Cootes, C, Seattle (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 20 (North American skaters)

In his second full WHL season, Cootes (5-11, 186) led Seattle with 63 points (26 goals, 37 assists) in 60 regular-season games and with eight points (two goals, six assists) in six WHL playoff games as a top-line center. He had 21 power-play points (eight goals, 13 assists) and three short-handed points (one goal, two assists) during the regular season. Cootes led Seattle in face-off wins (505) and finished fourth among all skaters with 12 points (six goals, six assists) in seven games as captain for gold medalist Canada at the 2025 U-18 Worlds. Serving as co-captain on Seattle along with defenseman Sawyer Mynio (Vancouver Canucks), Cootes is a born leader, recognized as a player who never quits on a puck, is smart and considered a difference-maker anywhere in the lineup.

NHL.com analysis: Young centers were a need for the Canucks and take a good one from nearby Seattle in Cootes, who has earned comparisons to New York Rangers center Vincent Trocheck. His hockey IQ is one of his standout qualities, and he projects to be a big contributor on the power play and penalty kill. And while he isn't the biggest player on the ice, he's never shied away from physical play.

16. New York Islanders -- Victor Eklund, RW, Djurgarden (SWE-2)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 2 (International skaters)

Eklund (5-11, 169) led under-20 players in Allsvenskan in goals (19) and points (31) in 42 games. The 18-year-old had the most points by a teenage forward in the league since Nikola Pasic had 35 points (eight goals, 27 assists) in 45 games for Karlskoga as a 19-year-old in 2019-20. A playmaker with good vision, creativity and competitiveness, he also had six points (two goals, four assists) in seven games for Sweden at the World Juniors as the youngest player on the team. His older brother, William Eklund, was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the first round (No. 7) of the 2021 NHL Draft. Eklund compares his style of play to Philadelphia Flyers forward Travis Konecny.

NHL.com analysis: With their second pick of the night, the Islanders opt for Eklund, who was described by his Djurgarden coach as a junkyard dog because of his determination and compete level. Eklund plays a power forward style despite his size. He'll still need to take his physical development to another level to play that style in the NHL, but Eklund projects to be a top-six forward with a good mix of grit and scoring touch.

17. New York Islanders -- Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 9 (North American skaters)

Aitcheson (6-1, 199), who was named "Best Bodychecker" in the Eastern Conference in the OHL coaches' poll, completed his third season with Barrie with career-high totals in goals (26), assists (33), points (59), power-play goals (nine) and game-winning goals (six) in 64 games. He accomplished this while not sacrificing his fierceness along the back end. He can quarterback a power play and be a shutdown, in-your-face type performer. He enjoys playing physical and can back it up. His favorite NHL defenseman is Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins, but he's been compared by many to Darnell Nurse of the Edmonton Oilers.

NHL.com analysis: With the second of the picks they acquired for trading defenseman Noah Dobson, the Islanders opt for a physical, nasty defenseman with high-end offensive skills who set a Barrie single-season record for goals by a defenseman. Aitcheson's game has been compared to McAvoy and Jacob Trouba of the Anaheim Ducks, nasty players who hit hard and often. But what stood out was Aitcheson played 64 games each of the past two seasons, and cut his penalty minutes from 126 to 88. Aitcheson, like Schaefer, has an electric personality with a huge smile to go with his propensity for huge hits that likely will make a big fan favorite. With Schaefer and Aitcheson, as well as Ryan Pulock, Adam Pelech and Alexander Romanov, the Islanders have the foundation for a solid defense with a strong mix of offensive skill and physicality.

18. Calgary Flames -- Cole Reschny, C, Victoria (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 25 (North America)

Reschny (5-11, 180) has a high hockey IQ, good instincts on both sides of the puck and can play power play or penalty kill. The 18-year-old led Victoria with 92 points (26 goals, 66 assists), scored seven power-play goals and won 56.4 percent of his face-offs in 62 games. He's not overly physical but understands how to take away time and space from opponents with good positioning. He'll play at the University of North Dakota next season.

NHL.com analysis: Center is a giant area of need for the Flames; their top center this season, Nazem Kadri, is 34, and second-line center Mikael Backlund is 36 and unsigned past the 2025-26 season. Using the first of their two first-round picks on a center felt like a given. Reschny stands out for his high hockey IQ, speed and tenacity. He'll need to keep fill out a bit physically, and going to North Dakota next season should help him there.

19. St. Louis Blues -- Justin Carbonneau, RW, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 16 (North American skaters)

In his third season in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League, the right-handed shot was second in the league with 89 points and tied for second with 46 goals and 16 power-play goals in 62 games. Carbonneau (6-1, 205) is a natural goal-scorer with an excellent release and is capable of impacting the game in many ways because of his poise and deception with the puck on his stick. The 18-year-old finishes checks and is agile on his edges in tight spaces.

NHL.com analysis: Carbonneau is tailor-made to the identity the Blues like to play with: Big, strong and skilled. Carbonneau grew up playing linebacker and running back in football, and brings that same physical, attacking mindset to the ice. The Blues have arguably the strongest group of prospects in the NHL, with an NHL-best nine of them playing in the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship. A couple of them will graduate to the pro hockey full-time next season, but adding a high-end forward like Carbonneau keeps the prospect pipeline well-stocked.

20. Columbus Blue Jackets -- Pyotr Andreyanov, G, CSKA Jr. (RUS-JR)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 1 (International goalies)

Andreyanov (6-foot, 207) was 23-6-6 with a 1.75 goals-against average, .942 save percentage and three shutouts in 37 regular-season games in Russia's junior league. He also had a .909 save percentage in three playoff games. The 18-year-old played well enough to earn his first call-up to CSKA in the Kontinental Hockey League but did not get into a game. His athleticism and quickness should offset any concerns about his size.

NHL.com analysis: Andreyanov as the first goalie off the board is a bit of surprise, but he has the kind of athleticism and aggressiveness that could put him on the path to being an NHL starter; one scout said, "all his actions [point] to stardom." Goaltending has been an issue for the Blue Jackets since Sergei Bobrovsky left as a free agent in 2019; their .911 5-on-5 save percentage the past six seasons is 24th in the NHL. Andreyanov likely will play full-time in the KHL next season. And while he will need some time there to develop, the wait could be worth it.

21. Nashville Predators -- Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 23 (North American skaters)

An elite skater with great vision and a sense for the game, Reid (6-0, 183) really made a push to be seen as a potential first-round pick this season. He led Kitchener defensemen in goals (14), assists (40), points (54), power-play points (25 points; three goals, 22 assists) and game-winning goals (three). The left-handed shot plays with a lot of poise and composure, will get physical when needed, and can quarterback a power play. He had five assists in 14 OHL playoff games.

NHL.com analysis: The Predators move up two spots to select Reid, a dynamic defenseman who has earned comparisons to the Winnipeg Jets' Josh Morrissey. Nashville traditionally has done well developing young defensemen, but with Tanner Molendyk (2023, No. 24) ready to turn pro, now could be the right time to add a left-shot defender with great feet, and the ability to easily beat forechecking pressure, with a smart first pass or his strong skating.

22. Pittsburgh Penguins -- Bill Zonnon, RW, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 31 (North American skaters)

The left-handed shot (6-2, 185), who can play wing or center, has improved each of his three seasons in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League. He was second on the team with 83 points (28 goals, 55 assists) and 34 power-play points (seven goals, 27 assists) in 64 games this season. Zonnon did 16 pullups during the fitness testing at the NHL Scouting Combine, the most of any of the 90 participating prospects. He has the look of a player capable of contributing in a middle-six role at the next level. He's good on the give-and-go and will attack the net. The 18-year-old will play for Blainville-Boisbriand next season after being traded there on June 5.

NHL.com analysis: If the Penguins' goal was to get quicker and more athletic, then they found the perfect player in Zonnon. He has standout speed and used that to power a high-skill offensive game. Zonnon was shifted to center this season and clearly has found a new full-time position. With Benjamin Kindel and now Zonnon, it's clear the Penguins had a plan in mind to build through the middle.

23. Ottawa Senators -- Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 12 (North American skaters)

Hensler (6-2, 198) is a player NHL scouts had pegged as a potential top-20 candidate in the 2025 draft. The 18-year-old right-hand shot possesses good size, strength and smarts, qualities that also earned him a spot on the gold medal-winning United States team at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship. Hensler had one assist and averaged 12:12 of ice time in seven games at the tournament. He had 12 points (two goals, 10 assists) and 30 blocked shots in 32 games as a freshman at the University of Wisconsin, after he had 32 points (four goals, 28 assists) in 61 games with USA Hockey's National Team Development Program Under-18 team in 2023-24. Hensler could become the second college hockey player off the board after Boston College center James Hagens.

NHL.com analysis: The Senators moved back two spots and got a big, strong defenseman who was able to handle more physically developed competition as one of the youngest players in NCAA hockey this season. It's the fourth straight year the Senators have used their first pick on a defenseman, and the second straight in the first round after selecting Carter Yakemchuk with the No. 7 pick of the 2024 NHL Draft. A future of Yakemchuk and Hensler on the right side with and Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot on the left on the top two pairs is the kind of foundation Stanley Cup Playoff teams are built on.

24. Pittsburgh Penguins -- William Horcoff, C, Michigan (NCAA)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 24 (North American skaters)

The youngest player in college hockey this season had 10 points (four goals, six assists) in 18 NCAA games after joining Michigan in December. Horcoff, the son of former NHL forward Shawn Horcoff, had 14 points (eight goals, six assists) in 28 games with the NTDP U-18 team to begin the season. He makes plays in tight spaces and is really effective when he uses his size (6-5, 203) to shield pucks and thrive in high-traffic areas.

NHL.com analysis: The Penguins moved up from No. 31 to select their third center of the first round. Horcoff found his groove and more ice time after moving to Michigan midway through the season, and he'll likely get even more ice time next season. What separates Horcoff is his athleticism; he finished in the top 10 in five events at the NHL Scouting Combine, including a record 124.8 inches in the horizontal jump, blowing past the previous mark of 123.0 inches. With Benjamin Kindel, Bill Zonnon and now Horcoff, the Penguins clearly had a plan and must feel like they executed it perfectly.

25. Chicago Blackhawks -- Vaclav Nestrasil, F, Muskegon (USHL)

NHL.com Central Scouting: No. 36 (North American skaters)

Nestrasil (6-6, 185) had 42 points (19 goals, 23 assists) in 61 games, including 34 points in the final 40 games of the regular season with the Lumberjacks. He finished fourth among USHL skaters with four short-handed points this season. Committed to the University of Massachusetts in 2025-26, the right-handed shot is a power forward capable of making plays in the tough areas of the ice.

NHL.com analysis: With their second pick of the night, the Blackhawks reach a bit for Nestrasil, who has earned comparisons to Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch. The Blackhawks feel good about their center depth after taking Anton Frondell at No. 3 plus Connor Bedard and Oliver Moore, who ended the season in Chicago after completing his college career. Nestrasil projects to be the kind of scorer to complement those talented centers, with his giant size able to clear space for him to make full use of his offensive skills. And as big and strong as he is now, he could be a monster when he fully matures physically.

26. Nashville Predators -- Ryker Lee, RW, Madison (USHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 28 (North American skaters)

In his first full season in the United States Hockey League, Lee (6-foot, 185) led rookies in goals (31), power-play goals (10) and points (68), and was second in assists (37) and game-winning goals (five) in 58 games to lead Madison to a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference. Committed to Michigan State in 2025-26, the 18-year-old led all prospects during the NHL Scouting Combine fitness testing in the vertical jump (25.67 inches). Lee had 21 regular-season multipoint games, and six points (three goals, three assists) and 19 shots on goal in six USHL playoff games.

NHL.com analysis: The Predators go back to forward with their third pick of the evening, selecting the top rookie and a finalist for player of the year in the USHL. Lee has elite offensive skills with vision that allows him to find seams and openings that others can't. With Brady Martin, Cameron Reid and now Lee, the Predators must feel good about how they've reloaded their prospect pipeline.

27. Washington Capitals -- Lynden Lakovic, LW, Moose Jaw (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 14 (North American skaters)

Lakovic (6-4, 200) led Moose Jaw with 58 points (27 goals, 31 assists) in 47 games. The 18-year-old was one of the most impressive players at the 2024 CHL USA Prospects Challenge in November, showcasing his outstanding skating and playmaking ability. "He's got the speed to separate himself from defenders when he's attacking the offensive zone, and then he also has the skill level," NHL Central Scouting senior western scout John Williams said. "He's a very good playmaker."

NHL.com analysis: The Capitals add another talented young forward prospect to a group that includes Terik Parascak (2024, No. 17), Ilya Protas (2024, No. 75), who was second in the OHL with 124 points (50 goals, 74 assists) in 61 games this season, and Andrew Cristall (2023, No. 40), who led the Western Hockey League with 132 points (48 goals, 84 assists) in 57 games. What makes Lakovic stand out is how he skates so well for a player his size. He has the ability to blow past a defender or use his giant frame to protect the puck in traffic.

28. Winnipeg Jets -- Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 18 (North American skaters)

The left-handed shot (6-2, 184) really opened eyes with his play for silver medal-winning Sweden at the 2025 IIHF Under-18 World Championship, setting the tournament scoring record for a defenseman with 14 points (one goal, 13 assists) while averaging 24:29 of ice time in seven games. Boumedienne had 13 points (three goals, 10 assists), 24 blocked shots and a plus-8 rating in 40 games as a freshman with Boston University this season. He was paired alongside countryman Tom Willander (Vancouver Canucks) for much of the season, and improved throughout, particularly in his passing and being able to move the puck quickly. Boumedienne is expected to return to BU next season and the sky is the limit with the proper development.

NHL.com analysis: The Jets use a first-round pick on a defenseman for just the second time since 2017 (Ville Heinola, No. 20, 2019). Boumedienne stood out playing against older competition during the NCAA season, but his play really took off during the World Under-18s. His mature game and high hockey IQ could get him to the NHL sooner than other prospects. Winnipeg certainly could use a boost of skill and youth to a defense group that had two players with more than 30 points this season, Josh Morrissey (62) and Neal Pionk (39).

29. Chicago Blackhawks -- Mason West, C, Edina (high school)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 27 (North American skaters)

West (6-foot-6, 215 pounds) has been a two-sport standout in football and hockey at Edina the past three seasons. The right-shot center ranked first in goals (27) and shots on goal (44), tied for first in game-winning goals (five), and was second in points (50) in 31 games as a junior this season. On the gridiron, he completed 178 of 244 passes for 2,592 yards, with 37 touchdowns and four interceptions. He finished with a 139.9 passer rating. He will play football in the fall at Edina and play for Fargo in December at the end of football season. Selected in the fifth round (No. 75) of the 2023 USHL futures draft, West had nine points (one goal, eight assists) in 10 games after joining Fargo on March 14. He will play at Michigan State in 2026-27.

NHL.com analysis: The Blackhawks traded back into the first round to choose West, a star athlete who will play football in the fall before going full-time into hockey. The Blackhawks don't just get a skilled player who will continue to round out his game next season at Fargo and then beyond at Michigan State, but they address any concerns with size in their forward group. With West and Vaclav Nestrasil, as well as Frondell, who won't shy away from physical play, the Blackhawks raised their skill level as well as their toughness with their three first-round picks.

30. San Jose Sharks -- Joshua Ravensbergen, G, Price George (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 1 (North American goalies)

With his size (6-5, 191), athleticism and demeanor, Ravensbergen checks every box NHL scouts could hope to look for when it comes to a goalie. The 18-year-old was 33-13-4 with a 3.00 goals-against average and .901 save percentage in 51 Western Hockey League games. He found a new level of determination after going not being selected in the WHL Bantam Draft, and with is mindset, structure and quickness, he'll have a chance to be a No. 1 goalie in the NHL.

NHL.com analysis: It took a few years, and an extra couple of hours, but Ravensbergen finally heard his name called at a draft. The Sharks have Yaroslav Askarov ready for full-time NHL duty next season, but they need a goalie prospect to develop, and Ravensbergen has the look of a future NHL star. Central Scouting goalie guru Al Jensen said of Ravensbergen, "For all the years I've been doing this, it seems like the top goalies just stand out." Ravensbergen still needs time to fill out, and he should have a chance to further test himself assuming he makes Canada's team for the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. Ravensbergen's size and athleticism made him the top goalie prospect in the opinion of most scouts.

31. Los Angeles Kings -- Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 19 (North American skaters)

Brzustewicz (6-1, 203) really came into his own this season with 42 points (10 goals, 32 assists) in 67 regular-season games. He played a top two pairing role and had seven points (one goal, six assists) in five games from Dec. 20-Jan. 3 when London defensemen Sam Dickinson (San Jose Sharks) and Oliver Bonk (Philadelphia Flyers) were representing Canada at the 2025 World Juniors, proving he could step in and play big minutes in tough situations. He had five points (one goal, four assists) in 17 OHL playoff games to help London to a league championship, and two points (one goal, one assist) in five games to help London win the Memorial Cup. London coach Dale Hunter also utilized the right-handed shot at forward on a few occasions in 2023-24.

NHL.com analysis: The Kings moved back a few spots and were able to select one of the top defenseman from the Memorial Cup championship team. Brzustewicz was paired mostly with San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson, who is an explosive offensive player, so Brzustewicz often had to be the more defensive-minded player on the pairing. If Dickinson is able to play in the NHL next season, that could allow him to further showcase an offensive skill set that looked pretty good in its own right this season. The Kings have done well adding younger defensemen to the lineup in Mikey Anderson and Brandt Clarke, but finding more youth and athleticism at the position is imperative for the Kings, who made nine picks total at the 2023 and 2024 drafts, just three of them defensemen.

32. Calgary Flames -- Cullen Potter, C, Arizona State (NCAA)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 22 (North American skaters)

A top-six center, Potter (5-10, 172) is one of the fastest skaters in this year's draft class. The 18-year-old had 22 points (13 goals, nine assists) in 35 games as a college freshman, and had eight points (four goals, four assists) in seven games to help the U.S. win the bronze medal at the World U-18s.

NHL.com analysis: The Flames put the spotlight on center again with their second pick of the first round. Potter is considered an elite skater with top-end speed as well as elite first-step quickness. He's a playmaker capable of creating for himself -- he tied for second among NCAA freshman with 118 shots on goal -- or his teammates. With Potter and Cole Reschny, the Flames could be on the way toward turning a weakness at center into a strength.