The 2025 NHL Draft is in full swing, and the NHL Draft Tracker is buzzing with excitement as teams select the next generation of hockey superstars at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Kicking off on June 27, 2025, this yearās draft has already delivered major moments, with top prospects like Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa making headlines. Fans are glued to their screens, following every pick, trade, and surprise as the future of the NHL takes shape. Letās dive into the latest developments, from the first overall selection to the trades shaking up the draft board.
Top Picks Steal the Spotlight
The New York Islanders set the tone by selecting Matthew Schaefer, a dynamic defenseman from the Erie Otters, as the first overall pick. At 6-foot-2 and 186 pounds, Schaefer brings elite skating and playmaking to the blue line. Despite a challenging season marked by a broken collarbone, he posted 22 points in 17 OHL games, showcasing his potential as a future No. 1 defenseman. His emotional reaction, hugging family while wearing an Islanders jersey with a cancer patch, resonated with fans across social media.
Following close behind, the San Jose Sharks chose Saginaw Spirit center Michael Misa with the second pick. Misa, an 18-year-old with 62 goals in 65 OHL games, is celebrated for his offensive instincts and clutch performance. His selection solidifies San Joseās center depth, pairing him with their 2024 first-overall pick. Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks grabbed Swedish center Anton Frondell at No. 3, a versatile forward with a stellar Allsvenskan season, projecting as a first-line winger.
Key Trades Shake Up the NHL Draft Tracker
The NHL Draft Tracker isnāt just about picksāitās also a hotbed for trades. A blockbuster move saw the Montreal Canadiens trade defenseman Noah Dobson to the Islanders for forward Emil Heineman and two first-round picks (No. 16 and No. 17). This deal gives Montreal flexibility to bolster their roster while the Islanders add a proven NHL defenseman. Elsewhere, the Columbus Blue Jackets acquired forwards Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood from the Colorado Avalanche, parting with prospect Gavin Brindley and draft picks. These trades reflect teamsā urgency to balance immediate needs with long-term prospects.
- Notable Trades:
- Montreal trades Noah Dobson to NY Islanders for Emil Heineman, picks No. 16 and No. 17.
- Columbus acquires Charlie Coyle, Miles Wood from Colorado for Gavin Brindley, 2025 third-round pick, and conditional 2027 second-round pick.
- Vancouver Canucks trade for Evander Kane from Edmonton for a 2025 fourth-round pick.
Rising Stars and Unexpected Selections
The Utah Mammoth made waves by selecting Caleb Desnoyers at No. 4, a QMJHL standout who led Moncton to a championship. Desnoyers, known for his two-way play and playoff MVP performance, is pegged as a potential No. 1 center. Nashville followed with Brady Martin at No. 5, a hard-working OHL center whose physicality and 134 points this season drew comparisons to Steven Stamkos. These picks highlight the draftās depth at center, with six or seven projected in the top 10.
Surprises also emerged. Despite local buzz for Long Island native James Hagens, the Islanders stuck with Schaefer, leaving Hagens for later picks. Some teams, like the Sharks, reportedly considered Frondell over Misa for No. 2, adding intrigue to the draft board. The NHL Draft Tracker captured these moments, with fans on platforms like Instagram debating whether Hagens could still crack the top five.
Key Point Summary
- Top Picks: Matthew Schaefer (No. 1, Islanders), Michael Misa (No. 2, Sharks), Anton Frondell (No. 3, Blackhawks).
- Major Trades: Montreal-Islanders deal for Noah Dobson, Columbus-Colorado swap for Coyle and Wood.
- Surprises: Islanders bypass James Hagens; Sharks weigh Frondell for second pick.
- Event Details: Draft began June 27 at 7 p.m. ET, continues June 28 for rounds 2-7 at Peacock Theater.
Decentralized Draft Format Adds Flair
This yearās draft is unique, adopting a decentralized format. Prospects gather at the Peacock Theater, while team executives make picks from their home cities, connected via over 100 cameras. This setup, a first for the NHL, aims to reduce distractions and enhance decision-making. Social media clips show prospects like Schaefer navigating āthe gauntletā of interviews and photo shoots, creating a fan-friendly spectacle. The format has sparked debate, with some teams favoring the focus, while others miss the in-person energy of past drafts.
Whatās Next for the NHL Draft Tracker?
As Round 1 wraps up, all eyes are on Rounds 2-7 on June 28, starting at 12 p.m. ET. The NHL Draft Tracker will continue to log every selection, with teams like Philadelphia (three first-round picks) and Nashville poised to make further splashes. Trade rumors swirl around players like Brendan Gallagher and picks like Calgaryās first-rounders, suggesting more action ahead. Fans can catch the action on ESPN, NHL Network, or streaming platforms like ESPN+ and Fubo, ensuring they donāt miss a moment.
The 2025 NHL Draft is shaping up as a pivotal moment for franchises, with prospects like Schaefer and Misa poised to become cornerstones. Stay locked into the NHL Draft Tracker for real-time updates, as the next wave of hockey talent finds their NHL homes.
Keep following the NHL Draft Tracker on platforms like YouTube and Instagram for live reactions, prospect highlights, and trade updates as the 2025 draft unfolds!