The first round of the NHL Entry Draft is scheduled for Friday night in Los Angeles. This year marks a change, as team personnel will not be centrally located, eliminating the usual rink-side interactions and clandestine meetings. However, the presence of the drafted players themselves promises unique photo opportunities.
Beyond the top two prospects, Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa, the 2025 draft class presents considerable uncertainty. There`s no clear consensus after the initial two picks, suggesting we could see significant movement of draft positions early in the first round. With such varied opinions across scouting boards, teams may look to trade up or down based on player availability, and clubs holding multiple first-round picks could make surprising choices.
For this final mock draft, we will assume teams retain their selections, though potential trades and the players likely to be chosen by acquiring teams will be mentioned. For example, the Columbus Blue Jackets, Utah Mammoth, Boston Bruins, and Vancouver Canucks appear open to trading their first-rounders for immediate roster help, and these possibilities are considered.
The goal of a mock draft is not to identify the “best” player but to predict which player a specific team is most likely to select based on their perceived needs and preferences. This exercise focuses on “who is most probable if the pick isn`t traded” rather than “who I would pick as general manager.”
With that context, here is the final projection for the first 32 picks:
- 1. New York Islanders – Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)
- 2. San Jose Sharks – Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)
- 3. Chicago Blackhawks – Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
- 4. Utah Mammoth – Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
- 5. Nashville Predators – Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)
- 6. Philadelphia Flyers – James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)
- 7. Boston Bruins – Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)
- 8. Seattle Kraken – Jake O`Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)
- 9. Buffalo Sabres – Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)
- 10. Anaheim Ducks – Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)
- 11. Pittsburgh Penguins – Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)
- 12. Pittsburgh Penguins (from New York Rangers) – Viktor Eklund, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
- 13. Detroit Red Wings – Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)
- 14. Columbus Blue Jackets – Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)
- 15. Vancouver Canucks – Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)
- 16. Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames) – Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)
- 17. Montreal Canadiens – Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
- 18. Calgary Flames (from New Jersey Devils) – Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)
- 19. St. Louis Blues – Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)
- 20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota Wild) – Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)
- 21. Ottawa Senators – Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw (WHL)
- 22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado Avalanche) – Daniil Prokhorov, F, St. Petersburg (MHL)
- 23. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning) – Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
- 24. Los Angeles Kings – Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)
- 25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs) – Vaclav Nestrasil, F, Muskegon (USHL)
- 26. Nashville Predators (from Vegas Golden Knights, via SJ) – Malcolm Spence, F, Erie (OHL)
- 27. Washington Capitals – Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)
- 28. Winnipeg Jets – Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)
- 29. Carolina Hurricanes – Ryker Lee, F, Madison (USHL)
- 30. San Jose Sharks (from Dallas Stars) – Cullen Potter, F, Arizona State (NCAA)
- 31. Philadelphia Flyers (from Edmonton Oilers) – Bill Zonnon, F, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
- 32. Calgary Flames (from Florida Panthers) – Milton Gastrin, F, MoDo (J20 Nationell)
1. New York Islanders – Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)
This selection appears straightforward. While the story of Long Island native and Islanders fan James Hagens is compelling (and will be addressed later), Schaefer is widely regarded as the clear top player available in this draft. Many scouts believe he has the potential to be a cornerstone franchise defenseman, capable of driving play effectively at both ends of the rink. The Islanders face uncertainty on defense with Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov needing new contracts and trade rumors swirling around them. Given this, the Islanders likely see Schaefer as their future anchor on the blue line. If they keep Dobson, Schaefer`s arrival could allow Dobson to shift to a slightly less demanding role. Schaefer missed much of his draft year due to injury and could benefit from a season in the NCAA, though that seems unlikely. Even without it, the Islanders likely project him to step into a significant role as a rookie, potentially quarterbacking the power play, logging top-four minutes, and becoming a staple on the backend early in the season.
2. San Jose Sharks – Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)
Intrigue surrounds the Sharks entering the draft, particularly their need for defensive help and reported interest in center Anton Frondell. However, passing on a talent like Misa for other reasons would be ill-advised. The gap between Schaefer and Misa exists, but the difference in talent between Misa and the subsequent players is even more significant. Adding Misa, a dual-threat offensive force with strong two-way play, to a young core already featuring Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith is incredibly exciting. Misa can play center or wing, but his two-way capabilities are particularly valuable down the middle, providing the Sharks with a formidable one-two punch for years. A top six including Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Misa – all 22 or younger – would give San Jose a strong attack and reliable play drivers at center for the foreseeable future. Misa offers dynamic scoring, excellent speed, and elite hockey sense combined with a relentless style. It`s plausible he could make an immediate rookie impact similar to Celebrini`s in 2024-25, given his complete game and professional habits across the ice.
3. Chicago Blackhawks – Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
This pick marks where the draft truly becomes unpredictable. Rumors suggest Chicago might trade this selection, but if they keep it, Frondell or Porter Martone are considered the most likely choices. While James Hagens might be the best available, Chicago reportedly prefers a larger player to complement Connor Bedard. In this scenario, Chicago hopes Frondell can fill a second-line center role behind Bedard, providing two-way value, an elite shot release, and the ability to find open shooting lanes. Frondell would benefit from another year of development outside the NHL to become a more complete play driver. When ready, the Blackhawks could deploy Frondell opposite Bedard on the power play, giving them two players with elite shots on the flanks. Ideally, Frondell would lead the second line as a strong two-way center, giving Chicago a potent one-two punch for years to come.
4. Utah Mammoth – Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
There`s a significant possibility Utah trades this pick. If they do, James Hagens is expected to be the target for the acquiring team. However, Utah has publicly stated its desire for “hard skill,” a description that fits two players well: Caleb Desnoyers and Brady Martin. Both are legitimate options for the Mammoth, who aim to add grit to a top six featuring Clayton Keller, Logan Cooley, and Dylan Guenther. Martin is known to be high on Utah`s list and solidified that status with an excellent impression at the scouting combine. The forward, with a farming background, has attracted interest from many teams, including the Flyers and Bruins. Some scouts compare him to a Sam Bennett type – a player who might not put up huge regular-season points but becomes a “mammoth” in the playoffs. Utah believes its top lineup needs more toughness, and among the players available this high, Martin provides the most.
5. Nashville Predators – Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)
No team has scouted Porter Martone more extensively than Nashville, with upper management attending his games multiple times. Martone might possess the best hockey sense and vision in the draft class, and he`s also considered among the top players in terms of puck skill. Adding an elite shot to his playmaking abilities results in a 6-foot-3 forward with both physical and refined skills and exceptionally high potential. While he may not reach the level of Mikko Rantanen, my model`s second-closest comparable for his NHL potential is Rantanen, alongside Cole Caufield (in terms of potential impact, not size, obviously). If you`re Preds GM Barry Trotz, the goal is to develop Martone`s physical game into an imposing force, creating a dual-threat forward who will be difficult for opponents to handle. If Nashville doesn`t select Martone, Trotz has emphasized valuing upside and skill, making Hagens a potential target. However, there`s a quiet suspicion that Nashville might trade this pick to the Islanders for an NHL player and more assets if Hagens is still available.
6. Philadelphia Flyers – James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)
The Flyers` primary need is at center, and if James Hagens falls to them at No. 6, they should follow their approach with Matvei Michkov and select the player who shouldn`t realistically be available. The prospect of adding both Michkov and Hagens to their top forward group without picking in the top five in those respective drafts would be enormously valuable to the organization. Hagens would immediately become the Flyers` top center prospect. The team isn`t under pressure to rush him through college, with established NHL centers like Sean Couturier, Noah Cates, and newly acquired Trevor Zegras on the roster. When he`s ready, Hagens can provide the offensive boost the Flyers desperately need. His speed, puck skill, and excellent playmaking would complement Michkov well, especially if he recovers his play-driving ability in another NCAA season at Boston College. The refined aspects of his game will earn him the coach`s trust and establish him as a key part of the Flyers` offense for years.
7. Boston Bruins – Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)
This is another pick that could be traded. However, if the Bruins make the selection, Caleb Desnoyers would be an ideal fit for the organization. A French Canadian two-way center known for excellent shutdown ability, clutch performances, and leadership – these qualities should resonate strongly with Bruins fans. Desnoyers is a natural winner who performs his best in high-stakes games. He excels in tough areas, is a skilled playmaker, and possesses high-end hockey sense. His defensive game is already at an NHL-ready level. If he can improve his speed, the Bruins will have a legitimate offensive threat capable of handling challenging matchups in crucial situations.
8. Seattle Kraken – Jake O`Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)
There`s a recognized group of six top players following Schaefer and Misa, and Seattle will likely take whoever remains from that group. However, the Kraken need a defenseman, and they might consider trading back a few spots into the range where Radim Mrtka and Jackson Smith could be available. If they stay at No. 8, O`Brien seems like the likely pick unless they choose Roger McQueen. Seattle already has considerable depth at center with Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Berkly Catton, all age 22 or younger. O`Brien is a high-end talent whose addition could allow the Kraken to move Catton to the wing in the top six. O`Brien offers more high-end playmaking than Wright and Beniers and will have time to develop physically and improve his speed to reach his potential as a top-six playmaking center. He is projected to become a significant playmaking force, quarterbacking the power play and boosting the production of his wingers.
9. Buffalo Sabres – Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)
The Sabres have a respectable prospect pool, but the organization is in significant need of high-end center and right-handed defensive prospects. Both Mrtka and McQueen should be available at this spot, but the consensus is that the big defenseman is their preferred choice. The 6-foot-6 right-handed defenseman possesses promising mobility and quality transition defense, making him potentially a perfect partner for Rasmus Dahlin or Owen Power. Adding Mrtka provides the Sabres with another quality defenseman with potential shutdown ability, as the organization strives to end the NHL`s longest playoff drought.
10. Anaheim Ducks – Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)
The Ducks might very well trade this pick for immediate help, as GM Pat Verbeek has been active this offseason. However, if they keep the selection, taking a towering center who is considered a top-five talent in this draft class makes considerable sense. The Ducks dined with McQueen at the combine and appear to have thoroughly investigated his back injury. If the Ducks are confident it won`t be a persistent issue, adding a powerful 6-foot-5 center with the potential to be a dominant two-way force is an easy decision. The only question regarding McQueen`s ceiling is his body`s ability to remain healthy. If it does, he could potentially be one of the best players from this draft class. That potential upside is worth the gamble for the Ducks.
11. Pittsburgh Penguins – Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)
Holding two consecutive picks, the Penguins might attempt to trade up to secure an elite prospect – their combined pick value is close to the No. 3 pick, so moving up isn`t out of the question. If they don`t move up, the Penguins have an opportunity to significantly strengthen their pipeline with two players. If Roger McQueen is available, they would give him serious consideration. However, adding Jackson Smith to their blue-line depth would be smart management for the Penguins, who already have prospects like Owen Pickering and Harrison Brunicke on defense. Smith is large, physical, and possesses legitimate offensive upside. He should be capable of playing a shutdown role and driving offense from the back end. He is poised with the puck and will be near the Penguins` organization while attending Penn State. There`s a lot to like about Smith`s overall package, including his size, skating, composure, and offensive potential – attributes the Penguins could definitely use.
12. Pittsburgh Penguins (from New York Rangers) – Viktor Eklund, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
The Penguins land another prospect with top-10 potential in Viktor Eklund. Carter Bear and Lynden Lakovic would also be strong options here, given their outstanding offensive talent. Eklund plays a style that transitions well to the NHL and has the potential to score 70-plus points in a top-line role. His excellent forechecking, willingness to engage physically, fearlessness driving to the net, and two-way play provide him with the tools to be a player similar to Seth Jarvis. He is likely to be NHL-ready relatively soon, which is important for a team with as many veteran players as the Penguins. Having Eklund learn from future Hall of Famers in the latter stages of their careers could have a significant developmental impact, helping him reach his ceiling as a first-line forward.
13. Detroit Red Wings – Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)
The Red Wings tend to draft a specific type of player, and fortunately for them, several players in their range fit that mold, including Carter Bear, Viktor Eklund, and Justin Carbonneau. At least two, if not all three, could be available at this spot. Bear`s elite instincts and playmaking are attractive to many teams, including Detroit. Combined with one of the best competitive drives in the draft class, Bear possesses the characteristics of a play-driving winger with reliable two-way capabilities, similar to Zach Hyman. The Red Wings have several quality young centers, and Bear`s mix of playmaking and net-front finishing could see him excel on the power play and as an offensive facilitator. He would be an excellent fit for the Red Wings as a reliable top-six contributor.
14. Columbus Blue Jackets – Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)
There`s a clear possibility Columbus trades this pick for immediate help. If they don`t, this spot feels like the minimum where Aitcheson could be selected, given the Blue Jackets` need for defensemen. While Logan Hensler is also a strong consideration here, and the Blue Jackets like him considerably, there are few scenarios where Aitcheson would still be available for Columbus` second pick at No. 20, making the selection here logical. With Aitcheson, the Blue Jackets acquire a raw defenseman with the potential to become a menacing player to play against while offering two-way value. As a less polished prospect, Aitcheson requires time for development, but his skill set strongly suggests he can become a middle-pair defenseman who is difficult to play against, particularly in the postseason.
15. Vancouver Canucks – Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)
It`s perhaps the most widely known secret in the hockey world that Vancouver is looking for a center. The Canucks met with Cootes for dinner at the combine, scouted him extensively throughout the season, and were reportedly very impressed by his demeanor during the combine process. Jack Nesbitt could also be considered here, as the Canucks favor centers with size, but Cootes and Cole Reschny are believed to have higher ceilings. Cootes is projected to become a middle-six center with reliable two-way ability, excellent instincts away from the puck, and consistent point production between 55 and 65 points annually. If Kashawn Aitcheson were still available, they might find the big, imposing defenseman too tempting to pass up.
16. Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames) – Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)
The Canadiens have a dynamic offensive presence on their blue line in Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson, and Cameron Reid could be a perfect partner for him. Montreal`s management scouted Reid heavily this season, leading many to believe they will target him with one of their two first-round selections. The Canadiens are another team that could consider Aitcheson, but Reid`s ability to drive play through his excellent skating and sound decision-making is hard to overlook. He possesses the tools to develop into a solid top-four defenseman and doesn`t need to push his offense to provide value. He`s considered less risky than some other available defensemen, offering predictable offense and excellent mobility that enhances his transition game.
17. Montreal Canadiens – Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
Justin Carbonneau ranks higher on my personal list than many others because I believe he has immense potential as a power forward. With Juraj Slafkovsky already part of the team, the Canadiens need more size to complement players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Ivan Demidov. Carbonneau has the potential to become a dual-threat forward in a top-six role, demonstrating high-end creativity. If everything aligns and his decision-making improves, Carbonneau could become a powerful, play-driving forward. The Canadiens` development staff is strong and has achieved excellent results. Given Carbonneau`s significant upside, he is more than worth the selection for the hometown team.
18. Calgary Flames (from New Jersey Devils) – Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)
Calgary needs to add depth at center in its prospect pool, and Cole Reschny offers good value in this draft range. He is a quality playmaker who helps generate offense and possesses the best hockey sense among the centers available at this point. He doesn`t come with significant size and will need to play effectively in the interior of the ice to reach his potential as a second-line center, but his offensive tools are evident. The finer points of his game are nearly NHL-ready, including good success in battles, effective connective play, and strong forechecking. He has the potential to become a dual-threat player who can both make plays and shoot, which is something the Flames value.
19. St. Louis Blues – Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)
The Blues have invested a significant portion of their top draft capital in defensemen, and the pressing need for centers in their prospect pipeline cannot be ignored. Jack Nesbitt has garnered considerable praise from team executives since the scouting combine and could realistically be drafted within the top 20. The large center is likely to project as a third-line, two-way checker, but could see increased offensive potential if he improves his speed. At 6-foot-4, he brings size, strength, physicality, and the ability to effectively shut down opponents – attributes that many teams find attractive, including the Blues.
20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota Wild) – Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)
It`s entirely possible the Blue Jackets will select another defenseman with their second first-round pick, and it seems more likely than not. Lynden Lakovic would be a strong consideration if he`s available, but Logan Hensler is a player the Columbus management highly values. He is a quality defender in the neutral zone and in transition due to his excellent mobility, which allows him to make proactive defensive plays and maintain a tight gap. The right-shot defenseman could develop into a quality No. 2 or 3 defenseman if he reaches his potential and continues to improve his offensive game.
21. Ottawa Senators – Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw (WHL)
Lynden Lakovic makes a lot of sense for the Ottawa Senators. Management appears to really like the big, dual-threat winger who has untapped physical potential. He`s intelligent, moves remarkably well for his 6-foot-4 frame, and should be able to develop chemistry in the top six regardless of which center he plays with. If Lakovic can enhance his physicality, the Senators would have a legitimate dual-threat scorer with a power game who should significantly impact their lineup.
22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado Avalanche) – Daniil Prokhorov, F, St. Petersburg (MHL)
Daniil Prokhorov, described as a “freight train on skates,” is building momentum heading into Friday night`s first round. The consensus is that many teams appreciate his style of play and believe he will be selected in the early 20s. Teams with multiple first-round picks often take calculated risks with their selections, and Prokhorov certainly fits that description. The Flyers are likely to take at least one significant swing with their first-round picks, and a large, intensely physical player with raw offensive abilities that could translate into a power forward is precisely the type of talent someone like new head coach Rick Tocchet would be enthusiastic about developing.
23. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay Lightning) – Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
Given the Predators` drafting positions at fifth and 23rd overall, it`s highly probable they will select a forward at No. 5, assuming they don`t trade the pick. However, considering their defense prospect pipeline is relatively thin, Sascha Boumedienne makes considerable sense for them here. GM Barry Trotz is known to take chances on high-upside players, and Boumedienne possesses the most upside among the defensemen available in this range. He has legitimate offensive potential, is an effective puck-mover in breakouts, and is capable of playing a two-way transition game on a second pairing. If Logan Hensler were still available, he would be a major consideration, and Blake Fiddler is likely also in the conversation, though Boumedienne and Hensler represent higher-upside options.
24. Los Angeles Kings – Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)
As noted in previous analysis of prospect pool needs, the Los Angeles Kings have very little depth in defensive prospects. Fortunately for them, a 6-foot-5 right-handed defenseman with NHL family connections is available for the taking in this scenario. Fiddler is a mobile skater who effectively shuts down opponents in transition. He has above-average puck recovery skills and projects as a reliable shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. This is the appropriate range for Fiddler, and he perfectly addresses the Kings` needs. He will have ample time to develop into the large, shutdown player the Kings will rely upon in the coming years.
25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs) – Vaclav Nestrasil, F, Muskegon (USHL)
Increasingly, I hear that teams are highly optimistic about Vaclav Nestrasil`s potential as a skilled power forward. At 6-foot-5, he adds much-needed size to the Blackhawks` prospect pool without sacrificing offensive potential. He is a longer-term project, but his blend of passing, hockey sense, and playmaking skills is appealing. His high-end upside as a power forward is tantalizing, partly because he has significant room to physically mature and fill out his frame. If he learns to effectively leverage his physicality, he could become a winger capable of creating space, playing a dual-threat role in the top six, and featuring a quality shot release. The potential here is worth the gamble for a Chicago team that lacks a large power forward prospect.
26. Nashville Predators (from Vegas Golden Knights, via SJ) – Malcolm Spence, F, Erie (OHL)
Once considered a top-10 prospect, Malcolm Spence would be a valuable addition to the Predators` prospect pool. The team might consider goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen here, but there`s a possibility he could still be available when they pick again at No. 35. Spence brings a good combination of speed, physicality, and relentless two-way play. He is the type of player who aggressively pursues pucks, creates space, forechecks effectively to force turnovers, and can be trusted in key situations. Spence has the capacity to contribute more offense, and there`s a real chance he develops into a disruptive second-line winger capable of handling tough defensive assignments. The Predators currently lack a prospect with Spence`s profile, and he would represent good value if he can regain the form he showed last year.
27. Washington Capitals – Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)
The Washington Capitals have a specific player profile they favor, and they are known for taking high-upside swings in the draft. Their prospect pool desperately needs a center. While Milton Gastrin might be a safer pick, getting Benjamin Kindel – who put up 99 points in the WHL this season – at No. 27 is excellent value. Many project Kindel to play wing at the NHL level, but he possesses the hockey sense, playmaking ability, and speed to potentially play center. Kindel`s draft-year statistics and profile are very similar to Brayden Point`s. While Kindel may not ultimately become Brayden Point, the possibility of that outcome makes this selection well worth it.
28. Winnipeg Jets – Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)
The Winnipeg Jets` prospect pool is quite thin on defense, and their scouts have spent extensive time observing the London Knights, making Henry Brzustewicz a familiar player to them. As the season progressed, Brzustewicz demonstrated offensive instincts through his puck movement and activation in transition. There is significant potential for offensive growth, and he is expected to be London`s premier defenseman next season. The right-shot blueliner provides the Jets with a defenseman projected to excel in transition, possessing good puck-moving and skating abilities, who should comfortably fit onto the second pairing in the future.
29. Carolina Hurricanes – Ryker Lee, F, Madison (USHL)
The Carolina Hurricanes have a distinct drafting profile, focusing on prospects with high-end skill and promising upside. It seems likely they will choose between Ryker Lee and Cullen Potter here. Lee`s statistical profile is slightly superior, and he boasts elite playmaking, puck skill, a hard shot, and strong offensive instincts. His ability to identify open areas and release a shot quickly or make a precise play is expected to translate to the NHL. His skating needs improvement to fully utilize these talents, but given that skating is often the most coachable trait, Lee`s skill package could make him a home run pick.
30. San Jose Sharks (from Dallas Stars) – Cullen Potter, F, Arizona State (NCAA)
If Cullen Potter is still available here, adding the fastest skater in the draft would be great value for the San Jose Sharks. While they might ideally prefer a defenseman, Potter is too valuable an asset for a rebuilding team to pass up. His promising development at the NCAA level could see him become another piece of a highly skilled top six in San Jose. There is still room for growth in Potter`s game, and with his developing two-way play, the speedy forward with an excellent shot release provides the young Sharks core with another offensive threat who also contributes defensively.
31. Philadelphia Flyers (from Edmonton Oilers) – Bill Zonnon, F, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Adding a forward who performed well in the playoffs, possesses two-way ability, and plays with a relentless style feels like a classic Philadelphia Flyers move. Bill Zonnon demonstrates some of the most refined details in the draft, with excellent forechecking, good defensive instincts, and a willingness to battle in tough areas to win pucks. He plays one of the most translatable games among the remaining players and always gives maximum effort. The Flyers will need players who can fill these roles as they build towards future contention, and Zonnon also has promising offensive playmaking traits. If he can improve his skating through working on his stride mechanics, there is a clear path for him to become a fan favorite in a middle-six role.
32. Calgary Flames (from Florida Panthers) – Milton Gastrin, F, MoDo (J20 Nationell)
If Calgary selects Cole Reschny with their first pick, it is probable they will take another center with this pick. Milton Gastrin has a relatively safe projection as a bottom-six center. He is arguably more of a play driver than he is often given credit for, and he has shown the ability to compete effectively against highly skilled opponents. He is a high-floor prospect who displayed flashes of more offensive capability than previously anticipated this season. At a minimum, his instincts and supportive puck play should allow him to become a reliable member of a checking line that a coach trusts in important situations.
