Evaluating the 2025 NHL Draft Picks for Fantasy Hockey

With the 2025 NHL Entry Draft concluded, fantasy hockey managers are eager to identify the next generation of stars. This year's draft may not feature as many household names, but it boasts a depth of talent that could pay dividends in the coming years. Here’s a closer look at the top picks and their potential impact on your fantasy team.

Matthew Schaefer, D, New York Islanders

Selected: 1, Rank: 1

Matthew Schaefer is a dynamic defenseman who excels at both ends of the ice. Standing at 6-foot-2, Schaefer combines elite mobility with a high hockey IQ, making him a shutdown defender and an offensive threat. Scouts compare him to Ottawa’s Jake Sanderson, and he’s projected to become a top-15 defenseman in fantasy hockey. While he may not make an immediate impact, Schaefer is a must-watch in dynasty leagues.

Michael Misa, F, San Jose Sharks

Selected: 2, Rank: 2

Michael Misa is an offensive powerhouse with elite instincts and speed. Leading the CHL with 62 goals and 72 assists in 65 games, Misa is NHL-ready and expected to form a formidable duo with Macklin Celebrini in San Jose. Fantasy managers should consider him a top target in dynasty leagues, with the potential to score 90-100 points in the NHL.

Anton Frondell, F, Chicago Blackhawks

Selected: 3, Rank: 5

Anton Frondell is a versatile forward who can play both center and wing. Known for his two-way play and physicality, Frondell is projected to produce 75-85 points per season. His ability to complement Connor Bedard on the Blackhawks’ top line makes him a valuable asset in fantasy hockey.

Caleb Desnoyers, F, Utah Mammoth

Selected: 4, Rank: 7

Caleb Desnoyers is a cerebral playmaker with quick hands and excellent puck control. Drawing comparisons to Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews, Desnoyers has 70-point potential and is expected to be a key contributor on Utah’s power play.

Brady Martin, F, Nashville Predators

Selected: 5, Rank: 13

Brady Martin is a versatile winger with strong wall play and a knack for scoring. Projected as a middle-six forward, Martin could consistently score 20 goals and provide value in deeper fantasy leagues that reward hits and other categories.

Porter Martone, F, Philadelphia Flyers

Selected: 8, Rank: 4

Porter Martone is a big, creative forward with dual-threat offensive capabilities. If his skating improves, Martone could become a top-line winger in Philadelphia, with a ceiling near 70 points. Fantasy managers should monitor his development closely.

James Hagens, F, Boston Bruins

Selected: 7, Rank: 3

James Hagens is a speedy, creative center with excellent passing ability. Projected as a top-line or elite second-line center, Hagens could eventually play alongside David Pastrnak in Boston, making him a player to watch in deeper leagues.

Jake O'Brien, F, Seattle Kraken

Selected: 8, Rank: 9

Jake O'Brien is a smooth, deceptive center with top-six potential. If he reaches his ceiling, O'Brien could become an elite power-play quarterback and offensive driver for the Kraken, with a 90-point ceiling.

Wild Cards

Roger McQueen, F, Anaheim Ducks: McQueen is a high-risk, high-reward player with point-per-game potential if he recovers from a back injury.

Joshua Ravensbergen, G, San Jose Sharks: The top goaltender prospect in the draft, Ravensbergen is projected to become a starting NHL goalie within three years.

Conclusion

The 2025 NHL Draft offers a wealth of talent for fantasy hockey managers. From dynamic defensemen like Matthew Schaefer to offensive juggernauts like Michael Misa, these players have the potential to become cornerstone pieces of your fantasy team. Keep an eye on their development and consider stashing them in keeper leagues for future success.