Minor Hockey Talks - Hockey Forum

2025 NHL Draft's First Round: A Minefield of Opinions

The initial 2025 NHL mock draft is out, and it’s sparking some serious debate. Schaefer at 1st overall seems like a lock, but after that, it’s anyone’s guess. This draft appears incredibly deep, and the potential for steals is huge. What are your thoughts on the early predictions?

Is Misa truly Tavares 2.0, or is Martone’s power forward style more valuable in today's NHL? Hagens is generating a lot of buzz – could he be the next big American center?

The mock draft highlights some interesting team needs. Are the Flyers right to prioritize a center like Frondell, or should they target a different position? Could the Penguins snag a future star in O’Brien, or is Mrtka’s size and potential too tempting to pass up?

What about the later picks? Is McQueen worth the gamble given his injury history? Could Eklund follow in his brother’s footsteps and become a late-round gem? And who are YOUR dark horses in this draft class? Let’s hear your boldest predictions!