NHL Scouting Combine Insights
After a week at the NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo, New York, I present my updated projections for the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft. These predictions are shaped by conversations with agents, scouts, and team personnel throughout the year, offering insights into team preferences and the expected trajectories of top prospects.
Top Picks and Standout Prospects
One name that has consistently dominated discussions is Schaefer, with reports indicating he is the frontrunner for the top pick. A scouting director noted,
The world loves Schaefer. He is going No. 1.
His impressive performances at the CHL USA Prospects Challenge and the World Juniors, despite a lack of games since, have solidified his status. While the Islanders have been assessing talents like James Hagens and Michael Misa, Schaefer remains the strong favorite.
Team Strategies and Selections
Caleb Desnoyers, Anton Frondell, and Hagens all shone in interviews during the combine, showcasing their professionalism. The San Jose Sharks appear to be eyeing either Misa or Desnoyers as potential picks, although Desnoyers is being touted as the ideal second-line center for them. Misa still seems to be the safer choice, given his prevailing consensus among analysts.
If Misa is not available, the Chicago Blackhawks could turn to either Frondell or Desnoyers. With an abundance of smaller forward prospects, Hagens might not be suitable for them, while Martone does not match their skating preferences. Both Frondell and Desnoyers dazzled at the combine and could serve well alongside Connor Bedard as potential second-line centers.
Regarding the Mammoth’s strategy, there are concerns about size with a trio of smaller players, including Hagens and Logan Cooley. However, Desnoyers seems to fit naturally for their second-line center position. Also in the mix is Brady Martin, starting at pick four for Utah.
Interest from Other Teams
The Nashville Predators are weighing options, with Hagens and possibly Desnoyers on their radar. Despite having enough center depth, Martone has drawn considerable attention, and the need for a skilled forward after years of searching makes him a likely target.
The Flyers may show interest in Hagens or Desnoyers, especially if they need support for Matvei Michkov. Should Hagens be unavailable, they could lean toward Martin or Jake O’Brien for depth.
If Martin is selected early, he likely won’t get past the Bruins, signaling a potential deviation to either Hagens or O’Brien for pick six. The Seattle Kraken find themselves in a unique position, having invested heavily in centers in recent drafts, allowing them flexibility to consider defensemen like Radim Mrtka or Kashawn Aitcheson. O’Brien also remains a viable option as he can transition to a wing role if necessary.
The Sabres are reportedly interested in Mrtka due to his projected fit alongside established players like Owen Power and Rasmus Dahlin on defense. Similarly, the Ducks have an exciting young core and could target McQueen, a player they secretly dined with pre-combine.
Future Projections
In the teen picks, Lynden Lakovic is climbing space, with the Penguins eyeing him after solid combine interviews. Meanwhile, Aitcheson could catch the Rangers’ radar, being a fit for their competitive roster. Smith’s capabilities also stand out, as he could mesh well with the Red Wings.
The Blue Jackets are considering both Lakovic and Smith while weighing their options for a defenseman in their draft strategy. The Vancouver Canucks are expected to focus on Eklund or a left winger, like Bear, as they navigate selection processes for additional depth.
As teams plan ahead, the Calgary Flames seem likely to select a center due to their previous picks focusing on wingers and defensemen. The Blues might take Reid if available, though centers like Reschny or Cootes could be strong alternatives. Potential last-minute surprises could arise with names like Vansaghi and Murtagh potentially sneaking into the first round if needs align. Overall, the draft promises to be a blend of strategic maneuvers and opportunity seizing, with teams keeping a close lookout on available prospects from every angle.
