Introduction

The NHL draft is a pivotal event for hockey teams, offering a chance to secure the next generation of stars. As the 2025 NHL draft approaches, all eyes are on the New York Islanders, who hold the first overall pick. Matthew Schaefer, a standout defender from the OHL's Erie Otters, is the top prospect this year. Schaefer's impressive season, with seven goals and 15 assists, has made him a hot topic among hockey analysts.

Past No. 1 Picks: A Look Back

Let's delve into how the past five No. 1 picks in the NHL draft fared in their respective rookie seasons:

Macklin Celebrini (2024-25)

The San Jose Sharks selected Macklin Celebrini as the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL draft. Celebrini had a record-breaking freshman season at Boston University, which set high expectations. In his rookie NHL season, he delivered with 25 goals and 38 assists, finishing third in the Calder Memorial Award voting and earning a spot on the All-Rookie Team.

Connor Bedard (2023-24)

Connor Bedard made an immediate impact after being the No. 1 pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2023 NHL draft. Despite missing 14 games due to injury, Bedard led or co-led both rookies and the Blackhawks in goals (22), assists (39), and points (61). His stellar performance earned him the 2024 Calder Trophy as the NHL's rookie of the year, making him the second-youngest player to achieve this feat.

Juraj Slafkovsky (2022-23)

The Montreal Canadiens selected Juraj Slafkovsky as the first pick in the 2022 NHL draft. Hailing from Kosice, Slovakia, Slafkovsky became the first Slovakian player to be chosen No. 1. He scored his first NHL goal in his fifth game and finished his rookie season with 10 points (four goals, six assists) in 39 games.

Owen Power (2021-22)

Owen Power was the top pick in the 2021 NHL draft, chosen by the Buffalo Sabres. After two seasons at the University of Michigan, Power signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Sabres. He played eight games at the end of the 2021-22 season, recording two goals and an assist, and earned a spot on the 2022-23 NHL All-Rookie Team. Power led all rookie defensemen with 35 points (four goals, 31 assists) in 79 games during the 2022-23 season.

Alexis Lafreniere (2020-21)

The New York Rangers selected Alexis Lafreniere as the top overall pick in the 2020 NHL draft. Lafreniere, who was named the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Most Valuable Player in back-to-back seasons, tallied 21 points (12 goals, nine assists) in 56 games during his rookie campaign.

Conclusion

The journey from being the No. 1 draft pick to making a mark in the NHL is filled with challenges and expectations. Players like Macklin Celebrini and Connor Bedard have shown that with talent and determination, it's possible to rise to the occasion and become key contributors to their teams. As we look forward to the 2025 NHL draft, the next generation of stars is ready to make their debut and continue this legacy of excellence.