NHL Teams Secure Key Prospects in 2025 Draft Across Multiple Markets

The 2025 NHL Entry Draft was marked by a new decentralized selection format that was widely criticized for poor production quality and viewer experience. The Montreal Canadiens made strategic moves by trading multiple picks to acquire and sign elite right-handed defenseman Noah Dobson to an eight-year deal, addressing a key team need with an immediate impact player rather than drafting prospects years away from NHL readiness. The Ottawa Senators focused on building depth, notably selecting winger Blake Vanek, son of NHL veteran Thomas Vanek, and drafting two Russian players including a goaltender, reflecting a diverse approach to talent acquisition. The Vancouver Canucks, known for trading draft picks, chose to use their selections directly, selecting Braeden Cootes and others, prioritizing long-term team health amid a challenging trade market where teams are reluctant to part with NHL-level players. Overall, draft grades were assessed based on the value teams extracted relative to expectations and organizational needs, with trades factored into team evaluations, as highlighted by analysts who praised the Canadiens' asset management and noted the varying strategies across franchises.