NHL Draft Unfolds Across Multiple Cities with Key Picks, Trades

The 2025 NHL Draft saw several significant selections and team moves, highlighting the league's ongoing efforts to build competitive rosters. Utah picked Caleb Desnoyers, a standout forward who led the playoffs in assists and earned the QMJHL post-season MVP, bringing strong offensive credentials and international experience. The Columbus Blue Jackets, aiming to rebound from multiple playoff absences, chose defenseman Jackson Smith and goaltender Pyotr Andreyanov with their first-round picks, expressing satisfaction with these strategic choices despite some unsuccessful trade attempts. Fans in Columbus showed overwhelming support at a draft party, expressing hope for a Stanley Cup win and playoff success following a near miss last season. Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings, holding the 13th overall pick, participated actively in draft day activities amid a decentralized draft format, with ongoing efforts to manage free agency and roster depth. These developments underscore the teams' diverse approaches to strengthening their lineups and engaging their fanbases as the new NHL season approaches.