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The 2025 NHL Draft hierarchy has become clearer after the Islanders unexpectedly secured the first overall pick. The new president of hockey operations will have a relatively straightforward path to follow.
The top three prospects are generally recognized as defenseman Matthew Schaefer, followed by forwards Michael Misa and James Hagens. Schaefer has been consistently ranked at the top in 13 out of 17 lists compiled by Elite Prospects.
Initially, it may seem a bit puzzling, considering Schaefer only played 17 games last season in the Ontario Hockey League. His playing time was limited due to bouts of mononucleosis and a subsequent broken collarbone sustained during the World Junior Championships.
It is what he did in those games, along with various international competitions over the past year, combined with his age — Schaefer doesn’t turn 18 until September 5 and is one of the youngest players in this draft class — that has him at the top of all those rankings right now.