Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood Traded to Columbus Blue Jackets, Colorado Avalanche Get Picks and Prospect Gavin Brindley in Return

Denver, Colo. - With just $1.2 million in cap space, the Colorado Avalanche were slated to head into this year's free agency period with a bit of a handicap.

Well, not anymore. 

NHL insider Pierre LeBrun broke news of a trade call that started off sending Colorado Avalanche center Charlie Coyle, who had one year left on his $5.25 million contract, to the Columbus Blue Jackets. LeBrun announced just minutes later that Miles Wood, who still carries a four-year, $2.5 million contract, would also be sent off to Columbus.

In return, Colorado will get the lower of Columbus' two 2nd round picks in 2027, a 3rd round pick in the 2025 draft (which will take place on Saturday, 6/28), and 20-year-old RW prospect Gavin Brindley.

As mentioned in LeBrun's post outlining the full trade, Columbus did not retain any salary on Coyle or Wood, which frees up an extra $7.75 million to work with come July 1st. The Avalanche still have a Sam Malinski (RFA) deal to try and work out, but now they can renegotiate some cheaper and better-quality contracts to fill out the rest of the remaining holes on their roster.

Brindley, drafted by Columbus 34th overall in the 2023 NHL draft, spent all of last season with the Cleveland Monsters, Columbus' AHL affiliate. In 52 games, he totaled 17 points (6 goals/11 assists). On the smaller side for a forward at 5-foot-9, he's known to be a reliable presence in the defensive zone and a brilliant puck-mover with excellent vision.

The Estero, Florida native made his NHL debut with the Blue Jackets on April 16th, 2024 against the Carolina Hurricanes, just a day after signing a three-year ELC.


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Sharks draft goalie Josh Ravensbergen at No. 30 overall

Sharks draft goalie Josh Ravensbergen at No. 30 overall  originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

After adding some firepower up front at No. 2 overall, the Sharks addressed the other side of the ice at the back end of the first-round.

In a somewhat surprising move, San Jose selected goalie Josh Ravensbergen at No. 30 overall in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Ravensbergen spent the last two seasons netminding for the Prince George Cougars of the WHL, 33-13-4 record during the 2024-25 season.

The 18-year-old goalie is 6-foot-5, 191 pounds and brings tremendous upside to a Sharks goalie room headlined by standout prospect Yaroslav Askarov.

“Ravensbergen’s certainly a guy that has the upside potential,” Dan Marr, the vice president of NHL Central Scouting told NBC Sports Philadelphia. “I still think he’s finding his way as to what type of goaltender he’s going to be, but he’s someone, when you project, who has got a very good upside to be a No. 1 goalie in the NHL one day.”

Elite Prospects had Ravensbergen ranked as their No. 1 goalie prospect in the 2025 class, and the No. 24 prospect overall.

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Avalanche Free Cap Space By Trading Coyle, Wood To Blue Jackets For Brindley, Two Picks

The Colorado Avalanche traded Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday.

Columbus traded prospect Gavin Brindley, a third-round pick (77th overall) in the 2025 NHL draft and a conditional 2027 second-rounder.

The Avalanche clear $7.75 million of salary cap space and get assets in return, while the Blue Jackets add multiple veterans for depth as they look to take the next step in 2025-26.

"We are very excited to welcome Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to the Columbus Blue Jackets family," Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell said in a news release. "Charlie is an experienced, two-way player that adds size and versatility to our group, while Miles is one of the fastest skaters in the NHL who provides great energy and physicality.

"Beyond being outstanding players, both are high-character people who will fit in perfectly with our group and what we are building here in Columbus."

Charlie Coyle (Jerome Miron-Imagn Images)

Coyle, 33, had 17 goals and 35 points in 83 games this past season. The Boston Bruins traded him to the Avalanche at the NHL trade deadline. He's entering the final season of a six-year contract carrying a $5.25-million cap hit. In 2023-24, Coyle had a career-high 60 points with the Bruins while averaging 18:04 in ice time.

Wood, 29, recorded four goals and eight points in 37 games. He has four seasons left on a six-year contract worth $2.5 million annually. He dealt with an upper-body injury that kept him out of the lineup for nearly two months. When healthy, he provides depth scoring and some physicality, recording a career-high 107 hits in 2023-24.

Brindley (34th overall in 2023), played his first pro season with the AHL's Cleveland Monsters. The 20-year-old right winger had six goals and 17 points in 52 games. In 2023-24, he was the NCAA's Big Ten player of the year with 25 goals and 53 points in 40 games for the University of Michigan, and he won gold at the world juniors with Team USA. He's entering the third year of his entry-level contract with a $950,000 cap hit.

The Avalanche now have $8.95 million in projected cap space and three picks in this weekend's draft – the third-rounder they just received, a fourth-rounder and a seventh-rounder – according to PuckPedia.

The Blue Jackets, meanwhile, still have seven picks in the 2025 NHL draft, including two first-rounders. After that, they don't have a selection until the fourth round. They have more than $32.6 million in projected cap space.

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NHL Rumors: 2 Players Penguins Could Trade First-Rounder For

On June 26, NHL insider Darren Dreger reported on X that the Pittsburgh Penguins are open to moving their 11th overall or 12th overall pick "for the right young player." 

Due to this, let's look at two potential targets who the Penguins should consider flipping one of their 2025 first-round picks for now. 

Jason Robertson, Dallas Stars 

Jason Robertson is exactly the kind of young star that the Penguins should consider making a push for. At 25 years old, he is just entering his prime, and he would be a massive addition to the Penguins' roster. 

Robertson has been the subject of trade rumors this off-season, and it would be understandable if the Penguins pursued him. When looking at Pittsburgh's lineup, Robertson would be an amazing fit on their first line with superstar Sidney Crosby. 

It would take more than just the Penguins' 11th or 12th overall pick to land Robertson, but he would be worth it when noting that he is an elite winger multiple years away from turning 30. In 82 games this season with Dallas, Robertson posted 35 goals, 80 points, and a plus-10 rating. 

Marco Rossi, Minnesota Wild 

Marco Rossi is another notable young forward in the rumor mill right now, and more eyes could be on him with the JJ Peterka recently being traded to the Utah Mammoth. With Rossi being a 23-year-old top-six forward, he could be precisely the kind of player the Penguins would like to add. 

If the Penguins acquired Rossi, he would offer them a potential long-term answer for their second-line center spot. This is a need, especially with Evgeni Malkin entering the final season of his current deal with the Penguins. In addition, Rossi would also offer the Penguins another valuable weapon for their power play if acquired. 

In 82 games this season with the Wild, Rossi set career highs with 24 goals, 36 assists, and 60 points. 

NHL Trade Rumors: 2 Teams Interested In Penguins' Bryan RustNHL Trade Rumors: 2 Teams Interested In Penguins' Bryan RustPittsburgh Penguins forward Bryan Rust is one of the NHL's most-talked-about trade candidates right now. With the Penguins retooling their roster, the veteran winger has naturally been the subject of trade speculation. 

Photo Credit:  © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Ex-Devils Forward Miles Wood Traded To New Team

Former New Jersey Devils forward Miles Wood is on the move. 

According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Colorado Avalanche are trading Wood and Charlie Coyle to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for a 2027 second-round pick, a 2025 third-round pick, and Gavin Brindley. 

Wood posted four goals, four assists, 48 hits, and a minus-5 rating in 37 regular-season games this year with the Avalanche. He also played in one post-season game, where he had zero points and a minus-3 rating. 

Wood was selected by the Devils with the 100th overall pick and spent his first eight NHL seasons in New Jersey. In 402 games as a Devil, the 6-foot-2 forward recorded 78 goals, 70 assists, 148 points, and 486 hits. His time with the Devils ended during the 2023 off-season when he signed a six-year, $15 million contract with the Avalanche in free agency. Now, he is back in the Metropolitan Division but as a Blue Jacket. 

NHL Trade Rumors: Devils Should Pursue Avalanche StarNHL Trade Rumors: Devils Should Pursue Avalanche StarThe New Jersey Devils are undoubtedly a team to watch with the NHL Entry Draft and the start of free agency rapidly approaching. The Devils are expected to be busy this summer as they look to take that next step and cement themselves as true contenders. 

Photo Credit: © Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

Flyers take Martone at No. 6 to kick off their NHL draft 2025

Flyers take Martone at No. 6 to kick off their NHL draft 2025 originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Flyers made Porter Martone their 2025 NHL draft headliner, selecting him at No. 6 overall Friday night.

The 18-year-old is the captain of the OHL’s Brampton Steelheads. He’s arguably the top winger in this draft.

“He’s a pretty complete package,” Dan Marr, the vice president of NHL Central Scouting, said June 11 in a phone interview with NBC Sports Philadelphia. “And I don’t think he gets recognized as much for his skills and smarts as what he brings.”

The 6-foot-3, 204-pounder has a slew of attributes that teams covet. He’s a dogged competitor, he forces turnovers and protects the puck along the boards, he sees the ice and he scores from the areas in which you need offense.

“He’s a good physical package and he can play that power forward game, but I think the tendency there might be that [people] don’t really recognize the skill set that he has,” Marr said. “Like, he’s a very offensively skilled player. He has got the offensive instincts, but he has got really good hands and good puck skills.”

Martone recorded 98 points (37 goals, 61 assists) and a plus-19 rating in 57 regular-season games for the 2024-25 Steelheads. He had seven games of four or more points; Michael Misa, the second overall pick who also played in the OHL, had eight such games. Martone added four goals and five assists in six playoff games.

He was considered the third-best player in the draft by EliteProspects.com. TSN’s Craig Button had him at No. 4, while NHL Central Scouting had him as the sixth-ranked North American skater.

In their system, the Flyers needed some help at right winger. Martone now gives them a big boost. Down the road, the Flyers’ right side will feature a pair of top-seven picks in Martone and Matvei Michkov.

The Flyers have two more first-round picks with Nos. 22 and 31.

NHL Draft Preview: What are the Predators options with picks 23, 26?

As one of two teams with three picks in the first round, the Nashville Predators have a lot of flexibility in this year's NHL Draft. 

Alongside the fifth overall pick, the Predators have the 23rd and 26th overall picks. It's a new franchise record and is tied with the Philadelphia Flyers for the most first-round draft picks. 

MORE: NHL Draft preview: Frondell, Hagens, McQueen emerge as favorites for Predators 5th overall pick

MORE: Analyzing every Nashville Predators first round NHL Draft pick: 2022-2024 

MORE: Trotz, Predators prepared to get 'a really good player' at NHL Draft

Nashville obtained the 23rd overall pick in a trade in 2023 with the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Predators sent Tanner Jeannot to the Lightning for Cal Foote, a 2024 second-round pick, a third-round pick, a fourth-round pick, a fifth-round pick in the 2023 draft and the 2025 first-round pick. 

If you thought that was complicated, the Predators got the 26th overall pick in a three-way trade with the Vegas Golden Knights and San Jose Sharks.

The Predators traded Yaroslav Askarov, Nolan Burke and a 2025 third-round pick to the San Jose Sharks for Magnus Chrona, David Edstrom and the 2025 first-round pick. 

Five prospects have jumped out as favorites for the Predators to draft with these two picks, with the most popular player being defenseman Sascha Boumedienne

The 6-foot-1-inch, 175-pound Swede played this past season with Boston University, scoring 13 points in 40 games and logging 33 penalty minutes. He helped the Tarriers to an appearance in the NCAA National Championship game

With a lankier build, Boumedienne's specialty comes in his mobility on the ice and skating. It's a more offensively minded defenseman who, with more experience, could add some nice depth on the Predators' blue line.

If Nashville is still looking for center depth, another favorite is 5-foot-10-inch, 172-pound Cullen Potter. The Minnesota native just finished his first collegiate season with Arizona State, scoring 22 points in 35 games. 

He is also the son of former professional women's hockey player and Olympian Jenny Schmidgall-Potter. 

Potter is another player who will likely need to spend a few more seasons with Arizona State or in Milwaukee before making the jump to Nashville. Still, he is a very good transitional player. He can break out the puck well and generate good scoring chances on the rush, a critical skill for a center to have. 

Goalie Joshua Ravensbergen is a name being mentioned as a potential 26th overall pick for the Predators. This comes with caution as the Predators, over their 27-year history, have struggled with selecting goalies in the first round. 

At 6-foot-5-inches and 190 pounds, Ravensbergen is in his second season with the Prince George Cougars. He posted an impressive 33-13-4 record this season, with a .901 save percentage. His goals against average was a bit higher at 3.00. 

With a six-and-a-half-foot build, Ravensbergen definitely has an NHL goalie frame. It's always good to get a goalie in the system, but the question is if Nashville really needs one. 

Defenseman Blake Fiddler, the son of former Predator forward Vernon Fiddler, is a favorite to be selected at 23rd or 26th. 

Outside of his family connections, he put up 33 points in 64 games and logged 36 penalty minutes in his second season with the Edmonton Oil Kings. He's a strong, offensively minded player, and it wouldn't be surprising if he were picked up before the Predators had a chance. 

With a 6-foot-4-inch, 209-pound build, only more experience can really benefit Fiddler. Another season in the WHL could really show just what Fiddler is capable of. 

Center and quarterback Mason West is the final prospect that could land in the Predators lap. 

The 6-foot-6-inch, 215-pound Minnesotan just finished his junior year, splitting time between Edina High School's varsity hockey team and the Fargo Force in the USHL. He had 49 points in 39 games with Edina and nine points in 10 games with the Force.

At quarterback, West was 178-of-244 passing for 2,592 yards and threw 37 touchdowns. He also holds Division I football offers from Marshall, Miami (Ohio) and Kent State. 

He's already committed to Michigan State (to play hockey) and will be spending his senior year playing football for Edina and hockey for the Fargo Force. 

This is a very unique prospect, but the Predators wouldn't have him in the system until at least the 2027-28 season. Still, with his build and especially needing a center, West could be worth the wait. 

 

Flyers Mock Draft 4.0: Final Musings and Ruminations

The Flyers will almost assuredly pick a center for Matvei Michkov in the 2025 NHL Draft. (Photo: Christopher Hanewinc, Imagn Images)

It's time for our fourth and final rendition of our 2025 Philadelphia Flyers mock draft, complete with all 32 first-round selections from every team.

The perpetually changing rumor landscape has changed our selections over time, with names like James Hagens, Porter Martone, Ivan Ryabkin, Joshua Ravensbergen, Jackson Smith, and more all making their ways into the first round for the Flyers.

So, what's ultimately going to happen? It's hard to say, but there are now only so many hours before the draft for things to change.

Let's talk Flyers and the NHL Draft, yes?

1. D Matthew Schaefer, New York Islanders

2. C Anton Frondell, San Jose Sharks

3. C Michael Misa, Chicago Blackhawks

4. C Caleb Desnoyers, Utah Mammoth

5. RW Porter Martone, Nashville Predators

6. C James Hagens, Philadelphia Flyers

Rationale: Under GM Danny Briere, the Flyers have developed a reputation for deception around draft time. But you can only perform the same trick so many times before you become a one-trick pony.

That's why I believe the Flyers are genuinely interested in James Hagens, once the consensus No. 1 player of this draft class, and believe he can be Philly's No. 1 center of the future alongside Matvei Michkov.

Hagens confirmed Thursday that he met with the Flyers an additional time following the NHL scouting combine.

7. C Jake O'Brien, Boston Bruins

8. F Brady Martin, Seattle Kraken

9. D Radim Mrtka, Buffalo Sabres

10. D Kashawn Aitcheson, Anaheim Ducks

Flyers Have New Trade-Up Possibility in NHL DraftFlyers Have New Trade-Up Possibility in NHL DraftIf the Philadelphia Flyers wish to move up in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft, the Los Angeles Kings have presented them a golden opportunity to do so.

11. C Roger McQueen, Pittsburgh Penguins

12. RW Victor Eklund, Pittsburgh Penguins

13. F Carter Bear, Detroit Red Wings

14. D Jackson Smith, Columbus Blue Jackets

15. F Benjamin Kindel, Vancouver Canucks

16. LW Lynden Lakovic, New York Islanders

17. D Logan Hensler, New York Islanders

18. LW Malcom Spence, Calgary Flames

19. RW Justin Carbonneau, St. Louis Blues

20. C Braden Cootes, Columbus Blue Jackets

21. D Cam Reid, Ottawa Senators

22. C Cole Reschny, Philadelphia Flyers

Rationale: Should they draft Cole Reschny, the Flyers will have drafted a center with each of their last three first round picks after Hagens and Jett Luchanko.

But that's not a bad thing. We don't know what Luchanko's true ceiling is as a promising player playing on awful teams, and the Flyers were basically the only team to value him as highly as they did.

Adding Reschny to the mix gives the Flyers a much better chance of having two potential top-six centers in the pipeline and helps further take the pressure off Luchanko to become some offensive maven.

Reschny is a versatile forward and was dynamite in the WHL this season, especially in the second half of the year. He'd be a great fit in Philadelphia.

23. G Joshua Ravensbergen, Nashville Predators

24. D Blake Fiddler, Los Angeles Kings

25. LW Bill Zonnon, Chicago Blackhawks

26. C Jack Nesbitt, Nashville Predators

27. RW Alex Zharovsky, Washington Capitals

28. C William Horcoff, Winnipeg Jets

29. D Max Psenicka, Carolina Hurricanes

Flyers Draft 2025: Who Are the Best (and Worst) Trade-Up Targets for Philly?Flyers Draft 2025: Who Are the Best (and Worst) Trade-Up Targets for Philly?With seven picks in the first two rounds of the 2025 NHL Draft, the possibilities are endless for the Philadelphia Flyers. They could use all seven picks, trade up once, trade up twice, or even trade down like they did in 2024.

30. D Henry Brzustewicz, San Jose Sharks

31. LW Cullen Potter, Philadelphia Flyers

Rationale: Another small forward Jon, really?

Look, Cullen Potter is one of my favorite forwards in this draft class. He's a monster skater and has a full offensive toolkit, and he's a left-shot left wing, which the Flyers really need more of.

Alex Bump and Nikita Grebenkin are probably NHL contributors, but do they have the skating and upside of Potter? No, not in my opinion, at least.

Potter will need to put on some weight and strength, but the Flyers already have guys (Bobby Brink, maybe Maxim Shabanov) smaller than the 5-foot-10, 172-pound Potter.

Add the talent first, worry about size later. Last year, the Flyers had the inverse strategy, though, so there's concern they again look for the tallest centers they can find within reason at this draft slot.

32. D Haoxi "Simon" Wang, Calgary Flames

Potential Flyers picks to watch on Day 2

With that all out of the way, there's a surprisingly considerable amount of talent left on the board, including some of my mocked first-rounders from past attempts at this thing.

The Flyers need left defensemen, so names like Kurban Limatov and Sascha Boumedienne should be in play at 36.

Later in the second round, I could see the Flyers take one, or even two, goalies. Russians Semyon Frolov and Alexei Medvedev (already plays in North America for London, teammate of Oliver Bonk and Denver Barkey) are the two best options there.

I lean Medvedev. Taking the Russian-playing-in-North-America pipeline worked well for the New Jersey Devils last year with Mikhail Yegorov.

Other names I like for the Flyers, in no particular order: RW Vaclav Nestrasil, C Ivan Ryabkin, LW Jack Murtagh, LW Kristian Epperson, D Maddox Labre, D Mace'o Phillips, D David Bedkowski, C Milton Gastrin, RW Jakob Ihs-Wozniak.

2025 NHL Draft Tracker: Round 1 Picks, Reports, Rankings And More

The 2025 NHL draft day is here. Check out the picks and scouting reports of the first round as they come in, as well as draft rankings and much more prospect coverage.

(Jump to the tracker)

Want to compare the first-round results with mock drafts? Want to learn more about where your team's new addition was ranked or how they play? Want a ton of NHL draft content, no matter what? Check out our curations of draft-related content as well.

Also check out The Hockey News' Draft Preview. Not only does it feature scouting reports on the NHL draft's top 100 prospects, but it also goes further into the stories of some of the top players available, as well as team-by-team reports that cover immediate and long-term needs, cap situation, players in the system, shrewd picks and not so shrewd picks. It's worth a read whether it's during or even after the draft.

After the first round, stay at THN.com and tune into our livestream.

Round 1

Refresh this page for the latest updates. All height and weight information are according to NHL Central Scouting.

1. New York Islanders: Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL), 6-foot-2, 186 pounds

"Thank you guys, I appreciate you taking a chance on me. I promise I won't disappoint, but especially, just want to say to my mom and all my family and friends, thanks for everything."

Schaefer was in tears as he heard NHL commissioner Gary Bettman call his name and as he put on his Islanders uniform for the first time. He said they were happy tears, but he wishes his late mom was there.

He started the season with mono and ended it with a broken collarbone, but in between, Schaefer established himself as the consensus No. 1 prospect in the 2025 NHL draft. Schaefer’s skating and hockey IQ are elite, and there is a sense of calm when the puck is on his stick. “He’s an exit machine,” said one scout. “He can skate it out or pass it out, and he has the ability to control the play. I’ve never seen a team disintegrate the way Canada did after he got hurt in the world juniors.” (The Hockey News Draft Preview Issue)

New York Islanders Select Their New Foundational D-Man, Matthew Schaefer, First Overall In NHL DraftNew York Islanders Select Their New Foundational D-Man, Matthew Schaefer, First Overall In NHL DraftAfter weeks of excitement, anticipation and speculation, the New York Islanders selected Matthew Schaefer with the first pick of the 2025 NHL draft.

2. San Jose Sharks: Michael Misa, C, Saginaw (OHL), 6-foot-1, 182 pounds

The CHL’s leading scorer and second-leading goal-scorer was simply unstoppable until he was injured in the first round of the playoffs for Saginaw. Misa is one of the most intelligent and tactical players in the draft. His ability to read plays and exploit holes in the defensive coverage or create small advantages for himself in battles is impressive. (Tony Ferrari's final draft rankings)  

3. Chicago Blackhawks: Anton Frondell, C, Djurgarden (Swe.2), 6-foot-1, 204 pounds 

After some debate over whether Frondell goes ahead of Misa, the Hawks get Frondell, a powerful center who boasts an excellent shot and plenty of potential as a very good two-way center. With Connor Bedard on the top line and Frondell taking the second-line center role, Chicago could look to give San Jose a run for its money for the best young center tandem in the NHL. (Ferrari's mock draft)

4. Utah Mammoth: Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton (QMJHL), 6-foot-1, 182 pounds 

“He’s a smart 200-foot player with really good details in his game,” said one scout. “He’s getting a ton of ice time with the best team in the league, which tells you something. He plays in all situations, big minutes and against top lines almost every night. I don’t know if there are many guys in the draft as well-rounded as him. He’s a guy you’d want to have on your team.” (The Hockey News Draft Preview Issue)  

5. Nashville Predators: Brady Martin, C, S.S. Marie (OHL), Six-foot, 186 pounds 

Farm-boy strong, Martin is just scratching the surface, and the early returns are already impressive. He was massive for Canada at the World Men’s Under-18s and carried a Soo team that didn't have a lot of other options this season. (Ryan Kennedy's final draft rankings)

6. Philadelphia Flyers: Porter Martone, RW, Brampton (OHL), 6-foot-3, 204 pounds

If you need a distillation of Martone’s game, just watch the first-ever OHL Top Prospects Game this season. The power forward notched a Gordie Howe hat trick in the all-star showdown, with the goal coming as the OT-winner. “He’s a skilled guy who can play it any way you want,” said one scout. “He’s physical, he’s hard to get away from the net, and he has great hands in close. He gets a lot of goals in a lot of different ways. He can handle it himself 1-on-1, or he can jam the net.” (The Hockey News Draft Preview Issue)    

7. Boston Bruins: James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA), 5-foot-10, 186 pounds

Going into the season, many scouts projected Hagens to be the No. 1 pick. And while he didn’t disappoint, he fell a bit after a slightly underwhelming offensive year. But perhaps that can be forgiven given the quality of NCAA competition. “If Hagens had played in the OHL for London or Kitchener, would he not have scored 55 or 60 goals?” said one scout. “You just wish he were a little bit bigger,” said another scout. “You can be pretty confident he’s going to create offense. He’s performed everywhere he’s been, and he’ll perform in the NHL, too.” (The Hockey News Draft Preview Issue)    

8. Seattle Kraken: Jake O'Brien, C, Brantford (OHL), 6-foot-2, 177 pounds

O’Brien sees the ice in a way unlike just about any player in the draft class. His touch as a passer is wildly impressive, and he became a much more confident shooter this season. O’Brien simply understands how to advance play. (Ferrari's final draft rankings)    

9. Buffalo Sabres:Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL), 6-foot-6, 218 pounds

The Sabres desperately need a right-handed defenseman to come in and play alongside their offensively minded left-shot guys, such as Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. Mrtka falls right into their laps. The big Czech defender has a very solid defensive base and some upside offensively. He fits right into what the Sabres need.  (Ferrari's mock draft)  

10. Anaheim Ducks

11. Pittsburgh Penguins

12. Pittsburgh Penguins (From NY Rangers via Vancouver)

13. Detroit Red Wings

14. Columbus Blue Jackets

15. Vancouver Canucks

16. New York Islanders (from Calgary via Montreal)

17. New York Islanders (from Montreal)

18. Calgary Flames (from New Jersey)

19. St. Louis Blues

20. Columbus Blue Jackets (from Minnesota)

21. Ottawa Senators

22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Colorado)

23. Nashville Predators (from Tampa Bay)

24. Los Angeles Kings

25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto)

26. Nashville Predators (from Vegas via San Jose)

27. Washington Capitals

28. Winnipeg Jets

29. Carolina Hurricanes

30. San Jose Sharks (from Dallas)

31. Philadelphia Flyers (from Edmonton)

32. Calgary Flames (from Florida)

Back to top

The 2025 NHL draft takes place in Los Angeles. (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)

Final NHL Draft Rankings

- Final 2025 NHL Draft Rankings: Ryan Kennedy's Top 100

Final 2025 NHL Draft Rankings: Tony Ferrari's Top 80

Instant Reaction: NHL Central Scouting Releases Final 2025 Draft Rankings

Mock Drafts

2025 NHL Mock Draft: Final First-Round Predictions For Schaefer, Martone And More

2025 NHL Lottery Mock Draft: Where Schaefer, Misa, Hagens And More Could Fall

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Each Team's Picks And Prospect Pool Needs

Three Candidates To Be Surprising Top Five Picks

10 Players Who Won't Go Undrafted Again

All Draft-Eligible First And Second Teams

After Schaefer, Who Is The Next-Best Defenseman?

Draft Prospect Profiles

- 'Stick Tap To Mom': Matthew Schaefer Aims To Make Late Mother Proud

Misa Making History: Top Prospect's Impressive Play Has Put Him In Contention For 2025 First-Overall NHL Selection

Porter Martone Fights To Win – Literally

Meet Simon Wang, The OJHL Defenseman NHL Scouts Are Flocking To See

Scouting Notebooks

NHL Draft Notebook: McKenna (2026 Draft), Desnoyers And Wang Impress In The CHL League Finals

NHL Draft Notebook: Hagens, Eklund And Osmanis Thrive At World Juniors

- NHL Draft Notebook: Schaefer, Martone, Eklund Shine Ahead Of World Juniors

NHL Draft Notebook: Highly Rated Hagens, Misa And Eklund Star Early

More NHL Draft Coverage

Mailbag: Where Misa Would Rank Last Year, Hagens' Drop And More

Player A Vs. Player B: Debating Between NHL Draft Prospects Including Schaefer, Misa And Desnoyers

Goalie-Specific Scouts Change The Landscape Of Predicting A Team's Future In Net

Lessons Learned In Hindsight From Lafreniere, Raymond And The Rest Of The 2020 Draft Class

Potential No. 1 Pick Matthew Schaefer On Islanders Bo Horvat, Adam Pelech & Mathieu Darche

2025 NHL Draft WHL Prospect Profiles

Three QMJHLers That May Go First Round In The 2025 NHL Draft

New York Islanders Win NHL Draft Lottery: Who Should They Pick First Overall?

Misa And Lakovic Highlight Ferrari's 'My Guys'

The Kids Chose Violence: An Evening With The OHL's Top NHL Draft Prospects

James Hagens Takes Center Stage With Team USA

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Canadiens: A Revamped Formula Of The Prospect Showdown To Take Place In September

The Montreal Canadiens announced on Friday that, after the success of their Prospects Showdown last September, they would be holding a revamped edition this September. Last time around, it only featured the Habs and the Toronto Maple Leafs, but this time, four teams will participate.

In addition to the Canadiens and the Leafs, the Winnipeg Jets and the Ottawa Senators will also participate in the two-day event. It’s scheduled to take place on September 13 and 14. On Saturday afternoon, Toronto and Ottawa will play, followed by the Canadiens' game against the Jets at 7:00 p.m. On Sunday, the Habs and Leafs will face off at 3:00 p.m., and the evening game, featuring the Senators and Jets, will kick off at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets will range from $10 to $25 for lower bowl seating. An early access sale will take place from June 30th, when coupons will be distributed in participating IGA locations on the Island, as well as on the North and South shores.

Proceeds of the event will be donated to the Montreal Canadiens Alumni Centennial Emergency Fund and La Tablee des Chefs. While it’s impossible to know who will be playing in these games, the Habs are using Ivan Demidov as the face of the event, so it’s safe to assume that the young Russian will be there. Jacob Fowler and Oliver Kapanen should also be there, according to the Canadiens’ article on the event.

If you're desperate for your hockey fix, hang in there - there’s about two and a half months to go.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images


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What Happened The Last Time The Minnesota Wild Didn't Have A First Round Pick

Jun 22, 2018; Dallas, TX, USA; Filip Johansson poses for a photo with team representatives after being selected as the number twenty-four overall pick to the Minnesota Wild in the first round of the 2018 NHL Draft at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images.

ST. PAUL, Minn - This is the first year that the Minnesota Wild will enter the Draft without a first round pick since 2017. Obviously things can happen and the Wild could trade for a first round pick before the draft or during it, but as of four hours before the draft, the Wild don't have a first rounder. 

It is the first year since 2017 that they don't. Minnesota traded its first round pick that year to the Arizona Coyotes in a trade for forward Martin Hanzel and Ryan White. 

The Coyotes drafted defenseman Pierre-Oliver Joseph with the pick. He has 194 career games in five NHL seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins and a half of a season with the St. Louis Blues. 

Minnesota made six picks in the 2017 draft. Ivan Lodnia was the Wild's first pick that year and it was in the third round. Mason Shaw was the next in the fourth round. Bryce Misley was their other fourth round pick. Jacob Golden was taken in the fifth round, Andrei Svetlakov was taken in the sixth round and Nick Swaney was taken in the seventh. 

Swaney and Shaw were the only two to ever play for the Wild. Swaney played one NHL game and just signed in the ICEHL. Shaw is a free agent. He spent the 2024-25 season with the Winnipeg Jets AHL team. 

The following season was new General Manager Paul Fenton's first draft with the Wild. He drafted defenseman Filip Johansson with the 24th pick in the 2018 Draft. Johansson has played zero NHL games and did not play a single game in the Wild's organization. He plays in Sweden now.

In five drafts as the General Manager for the Wild, Bill Guerin has taken seven first round picks. The Wild have had a first round pick in every year that Guerin has been the General Manager other than this year.

Minnesota traded its first round pick in a deal for Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman David Jiricek in November of the 2024-25 season. Guerin's first round picks include Marco Rossi, Jesper Wallstedt, Carson Lambos, Danila Yurov, Liam Ohgren, Charlie Stramel, and Zeev Buium. 

Again, anything can happen. The Wild could make a trade for a first round pick before the draft is over. But as of now, this will be the first time in eight years that they don't have a first round pick. 

Other Wild News

Wild Add Another Draft Pick For 2025 NHL DraftWild Add Another Draft Pick For 2025 NHL DraftST. PAUL, Minn - Following a trade on Thursday, the Minnesota Wild added another pick for the 2025 NHL Draft which takes place today.  Minnesota Wild Trade Freddy Gaudreau To Seattle For A Draft PickMinnesota Wild Trade Freddy Gaudreau To Seattle For A Draft PickST. PAUL, Minn - The Minnesota Wild have traded center Freddy Gaudreau to the Seattle Kraken for a fourth round draft pick.  Minnesota Wild Trade Forward Brendan Gaunce To ColumbusMinnesota Wild Trade Forward Brendan Gaunce To ColumbusST. PAUL, Minn - The Minnesota Wild made a trade on Thursday morning and followed it up with another trade. 

Blackhawks May Select Anton Frondell If Sharks Take Michael Misa

There is a lot of uncertainty in the top ten of the 2025 NHL Draft. No player has stuck out so much in his draft year that he has to be selected first overall. There isn’t a consensus on what the order should be, as there is in most years. 

However, there is a handful of high-end prospects who can make an impact in the NHL and possibly become a star if they are developed properly. That’s where the excitement stems from. 

The Chicago Blackhawks want Michael Misa. Although he isn’t seen as a superstar top forward at this time, his draft year production turned heads. With the New York Islanders almost certainly taking Matthew Schaefer first overall, the San Jose Sharks begin the intrigue. 

Despite reports that they are interested in guys like Anton Frondell and Porter Martone, there is a chance that this is a smoke screen for them to take Misa anyway. 

What will Kyle Davidson and the Blackhawks do if that is the case? They will certainly take a forward, but which one? Anton Frondell might be the guy to consider. 

Of all the top forwards projected to go in the top ten, Frondell is the closest to being a true center who can play the 200-foot game. Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar are seen as centers by the organization, but they'd like to add a more established two-way player to create a three-headed monster down the middle. Frondell could be that guy. 

NHL (@NHL) on XNHL (@NHL) on XIf you're looking for skill, look no further than Anton Frondell 👀 Catch the 2025 Upper Deck #NHLDraft on June 27 and 28. (🎥: IG/quickturnhockey)Lassi Alanen (@lassialanen) on XLassi Alanen (@lassialanen) on XTwo minutes of Anton Frondell's (#2025NHLDraft) best offensive moments from this season. Blistering one-timers from the half wall, angle-changing releases from mid-range, strong off-puck instincts around the slot, creative finishing solutions from close range.

Frondell is a high-motor kid who gives an incredibly competitive effort on every shift. He models his game after Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers, who has been a three-time Selke Trophy winner in addition to being a back-to-back Stanley Cup champion. That is the type of attitude you want from an 18-year-old being drafted. 

Coming off a strong year in Sweden, Frondell is the number one-ranked international prospect coming into the 2025 NHL Draft. He is almost certainly going to go in the top-five, but will he be the one that the Blackhawks end up taking 3rd overall? What happens in front of them will dictate that. 

Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay updated on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.

Montreal Canadiens Getting Noah Dobson For Eight Years In Sign-And-Trade With Islanders: Reports

The Montreal Canadiens are acquiring defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders and signing him to an eight-year contract worth $9.5 million annually.

The Canadiens' massive splash comes hours before the NHL draft. Montreal had two first-round picks entering Friday at 16th and 17th overall. Both those picks go to the Islanders, which also have the No. 1 selection in the draft. The Islanders also receive Emil Heineman, a 23-year-old left winger who had 18 points in 62 games this past season. 

ESPN's Kevin Weekes reported the trade, while Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported the contract extension. Friedman and The Hockey News' Stefen Rosner are among those who reported the trade return.

Noah Dobson (Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images)

Dobson, 25, was a pending RFA with arbitration rights. The right-handed blueliner had 39 points in 71 games this past season, a drop from years past. Dobson had a career-high 70 points in 2023-24, 49 points in 2022-23 and 51 points in 2021-22.

Dobson will be the second defenseman under contract past 2030 for the Canadiens. Kaiden Guhle is the other with an average annual value of $5.55 million. Their defense corps also includes Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson, who's left-handed.

As for the Islanders, they're projected to select defenseman Matthew Schaefer first overall. But James Hagens grew up on Long Island and is projected to go in the top five. They now have two mid-range first-rounders to potentially use as trade bait.

More to come as the teams have yet to announce the trade as of 3 p.m. ET.

NHL News: Blues Star Target Traded To Canadiens

The St. Louis Blues were one of the teams interested in defenseman Noah Dobson, but he is now officially off the board. 

Source: Blues Have Inquired About Potential RFA Defenseman; Should They Pursue It?Source: Blues Have Inquired About Potential RFA Defenseman; Should They Pursue It?The St. Louis Blues and New York Islanders are apparently each testing the market on key pieces of their core.

According to TSN's Chris Johnston, the New York Islanders are trading Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens. In addition, Johnston reported that Dobson is signing an eight-year contract extension with the Canadiens, where he will have a $9.5 million average annual value.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman also added that the Canadiens will be sending forward Emil Heineman, the 2025 No. 16 overall pick, and the 2025 No. 17 overall pick to the Islanders in the move.

Dobson would have been a great pickup for the Blues, as he is a top-pairing defenseman who has the ability to produce strong offense from the point. However, with Dobson being dealt to the Habs, the Blues will need to explore their options elsewhere. 

Dobson appeared in 71 games this season with the Islanders, where he recorded 10 goals and 39 points. This was after he had 10 goals, 60 assists, and 70 points in 79 games in 2023-24. 

NHL Trade Rumors: Blues Interested In Sabres StarNHL Trade Rumors: Blues Interested In Sabres StarAfter taking a nice step forward this season, the St. Louis Blues should be active this off-season. One area on their roster that could use a boost is their defensive group, and they have been connected to New York Islanders blueliner Noah Dobson because of it.

Photo Credit: © John Jones-Imagn Images

2025 NHL Entry Draft WHL Prospect Profiles

The 2025 NHL Entry Draft is officially here. After years of hard work, many WHLers will have the opportunity to experience their dreams of being drafted into the NHL. In honour of the draft, here are the links to some of the top WHL prospect draft profiles that THN's WHL team have produced over the past month. 

Jackson Smith:

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Jackson Smith 2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Jackson Smith The WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is defenceman Jackson Smith, who plays for the Tri-City Americans. 

Roger McQueen

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Roger McQueen2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Roger McQueenThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is forward Roger McQueen, who plays for the Brandon Wheat Kings.

Carter Bear

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Carter Bear2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Carter BearThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is forward Carter Bear, who plays for the Everett Silvertips.

Lynden Lakovic

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Lynden Lakovic2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Lynden LakovicThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is forward Lynden Lakovic, who plays for the Moose jaw Warriors.

Cole Reschny

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Cole Reschny2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Cole ReschnyThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is center Cole Reschny, who plays for the Victoria Royals.

Blake Fiddler

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Blake Fiddler2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Blake FiddlerThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is defenceman Blake Fiddler, who plays for the Edmonton Oil Kings.

Radim Mrtka

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Radim Mrtka2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Radim MrtkaThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is defenceman Radim Mrtka, who plays for the Seattle Thunderbirds.

Ben Kindel

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Ben Kindel2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Ben KindelThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is forward Benjamin Kindel, who plays for the Calgary Hitmen.

Braeden Cootes

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Braeden Cootes2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Braeden CootesThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is center Braeden Cootes, who plays for the Seattle Thunderbirds.

Matthew Gard

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Matthew Gard2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Matthew GardThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is center Matthew Gard, who plays for the Red Deer Rebels.

Cameron Schmidt

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Cameron Schmidt2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Cameron SchmidtThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is winger Cameron Schmidt, who plays for the Vancouver Giants.

David Lewandowski

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: David Lewandowski2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: David LewandowskiThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is David Lewandowski, who plays for the Saskatoon Blades.

Hayden Paupanekis

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Hayden Paupanekis2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Hayden PaupanekisThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is Hayden Paupanekis, who plays for the Kelowna Rockets.

Peyton Kettles

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Peyton Kettles2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Peyton KettlesThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is Peyton Kettles, who plays for the Swift Current Broncos.

Nathan Behm

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Nathan Behm2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Nathan BehmThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is Nathan Behm, who plays for the Kamloops Blazers.

Reese Hamilton

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Reese Hamilton2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Reese HamiltonThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is Reese Hamilton, who plays for the Regina Pats.

Max Pšenička

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Max Pšenička2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Max PšeničkaThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is Max Pšenička, who plays for the Portland Winterhawks.

Hayden Harsanyi

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Hayden Harsanyi2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Hayden HarsanyiThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Wrapping up the Eastern portion of this series is Hayden Harsanyi, who plays for the Saskatoon Blades.

Joshua Ravensbergen

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Joshua Ravensbergen 2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Joshua Ravensbergen The WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is Joshua Ravensbergen, who plays for the Prince George Cougars. 

Brandon Gorzynski

2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Brandon Gorzynski2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Brandon GorzynskiThe WHL is set to play a big role in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will be profiling some of the players who are projected to hear their names called at the end of June. Today's prospect is Brandon Gorzynski, who plays for the Calgary Hitmen. 

The 2025 NHL Entry Draft is scheduled for June 27 & 28 and can be viewed on Sportsnet/ESPN/ NHL Network

Carter Bear of the Everett Silvertips (Photo Credit: Caroline Anne/Everett Silvertips/WHL)

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