JUST IN: 2025 NHL Mock Draft: The Next Wave of Hockey Stars Revealed
As the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, set for June 27-28 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, excitement builds around a talented pool of prospects ready to shape the future of hockey. With the New York Islanders holding the first overall pick, followed by the San Jose Sharks, the stage is set for a transformative draft. Here’s a look at the top prospects expected to headline the next class of hockey stars.
**1. New York Islanders – Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)**
The Islanders are poised to select Matthew Schaefer, a dynamic two-way defenseman with elite skating and hockey IQ. Despite a mid-season injury, Schaefer’s ability to quarterback a power play, kill penalties, and drive play in all zones makes him a cornerstone prospect. His smooth edgework and competitive fire draw comparisons to Miro Heiskanen, positioning him as a potential No. 1 blueliner.
**2. San Jose Sharks – Michael Misa, C, Saginaw (OHL)**
The Sharks, building around young stars like Macklin Celebrini, are expected to draft Michael Misa, a prolific scorer with 134 points (62 goals, 72 assists) in the OHL this season. Misa’s versatility to play center or wing, combined with his Tavares-like scoring touch and strong skating, makes him a perfect fit for San Jose’s rebuild.
**3. Chicago Blackhawks – James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)**
James Hagens, a Long Island native, brings electrifying skill to the Blackhawks. His 37 points in 37 NCAA games and nine points at the 2025 World Juniors showcase his playmaking prowess. Though smaller at 5-foot-11, Hagens’ dynamic skating and vision make him a top-line center prospect, reminiscent of Jack Hughes.
**4. Utah Hockey Club – Porter Martone, RW, Brampton (OHL)**
Utah targets Porter Martone, a physical, skilled winger with 84 points in 66 OHL games. Martone’s relentless compete level and heavy shot evoke Corey Perry, making him a ideal addition to Utah’s emerging core alongside Logan Cooley.
**5. Nashville Predators – Anton Frondell, C, Djurgarden (SWE-2)**
Anton Frondell’s two-way game and 75-85-point projection in Sweden’s Allsvenskan make him a steal for Nashville. His anticipation and puck skills suggest a Gabriel Landeskog-like impact, addressing the Predators’ need for a high-end center.
This draft class, rich with skilled forwards and mobile defensemen, promises to deliver stars who will define the NHL’s next era. Fans eagerly await these prospects’ rise to stardom.