And after a season of speaking with agents, scouts, coaches and family members, here is my final mock draft for the 2025 NHL Draft. Packed with intel, this two-round, 64-pick mock combines sourcing with my sense for team need and leanings,

Matthew Schaefer lost his mother, Jennifer, to breast cancer. Now, he’s achieved the ultimate milestone – becoming an NHL player. The 17-year-old was selected by the New York Islanders with the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL draft on Friday in Los Angeles.

Schaefer played only 17 games last season before breaking his collarbone in December, but Schaefer’s acumen on both ends of the ice propelled him to the top of nearly all draft boards.