The 2025 NHL Draft is scheduled for June 27 and 28 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with the New York Islanders holding the first overall pick. As the draft approaches, speculation grows around the top prospects and betting opportunities, making it an exciting time for fans who enjoy hockey and the thrill of casino days jackpot slots and online games.
The 2025 NHL Draft – An Introduction
The NHL Draft offers different excitement for those looking to take a break from casino days, jackpot slots, and online games. Some analysts have labeled the 2025 draft class slightly weaker than previous years, but plenty of intrigue is still at the top of the board. The Islanders’ surprise leap to the No. 1 pick—moving up nine spots after entering the lottery with just a 3.5% chance—has added an extra layer of unpredictability to this year’s event.
The draft will take place over two days, with the first round on June 27 and rounds two through seven on June 28. The event features 224 selections in total.
The Islanders’ Lottery Win
The New York Islanders finished the 2024-25 season ranked 23rd out of 32 teams, but their improbable lottery win secured them the first overall selection for the first time since 2009. This dramatic jump could significantly impact their 2025-26 campaign fortunes.
Top 2025 NHL Draft Prospects
If you’re considering placing a wager—perhaps after a session of casino days jackpot slots and online games—these prospects draw the most attention in betting markets and mock drafts.
Matthew Schaefer (D, Erie Otters, OHL)
Matthew Schaefer starred for the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League in 2024/25. He was also anointed the top North American skater by the NHL’s Central Scouting Bureau’s midterm rankings, highlighting his exceptional and powerful movement. This was evident in his ability to quickly close gaps and launch attacking transitions, making him a high-functioning defenseman who can also contribute going the other way. Other coveted characteristics include the player’s size and competitiveness, which enable him to create outstanding blocks and deliver in clutch moments. He’s leading the consensus as the number one pick for 2025.
Michael Misa (C, Saginaw Spirit, OHL)
The honor of being the number two pick may go to OHL prodigy Michael Misa. He was once awarded exceptional status to play in the Ontario League when he was just 15 years old, while the last campaign saw him emerge as one of the competition’s best players. Another high-performance skater, Misa, combines athleticism with outstanding edge work and natural speed, and he has also displayed creativity in his attacks. He’s particularly adept at assisting and picking passes, thanks partly to his willingness to accept possession in tight spaces. He’s certainly tipped to score heavily in the NHL, while once again, he boasts an exceptional competitive spirit and could be a future star center.
Porter Martone (RW, Brampton Steelheads, OHL)
18-year-old Porter Martone is a star of the Brampton Steelheads and one of the top overall players in the OHL last season. He’s arguably the most skilled junior player in the draft, while he’s also an enduringly creative assist provider for a man of such imposing size (he measures 6’ 2” and weighs in at 208 pounds). His natural talent and reach combine to make him a huge offensive threat one-on-one, while he’s particularly adept at beating opponents in tight and congested spaces. Because of his size, he’ll be more than capable of engaging physically with opponents in the NHL, making him a popular draft pick in 2025. Although there are some doubts about his skating, he could be a high-scoring wide player who excels in the NHL.
Other notable prospects include James Hagens (C, Boston College), Anton Frondell (C, Sweden), and Caleb Desnoyers (C, Moncton Wildcats).
Betting Angles & Market Trends
The 2025 NHL Draft has generated unique betting opportunities, with sportsbooks adjusting odds in response to rumors and late-breaking news. The Islanders’ intent to select Schaefer has led many sportsbooks to remove odds for the first overall pick, shifting attention to the order of selections that follow. Matthew Schaefer is the heavy favorite for the No. 1 overall pick, while Michael Misa is favored for No. 2, though Anton Frondell has seen his odds improve due to speculation. An unusually high number of teams are rumored to explore trades, adding further volatility to betting markets.
The Bottom Line
As the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, the combination of a wide-open field, the Islanders’ stunning lottery win, and the presence of several high-ceiling prospects has made this event a focal point for both hockey fans and those who enjoy the excitement of casino days jackpot slots and online games.
Moreover, there’s some significant quality at the sharp end of the draft, while several exciting young prospects could take center stage in two weeks’ time.