The 2025 NHL Draft Lottery, held on May 5, 2025, delivered unexpected outcomes that are set to reshape the league’s future. In a historic first, the event was broadcast live, adding to the evening’s excitement.
🏆 Islanders Secure No. 1 Pick in Dramatic Fashion
The New York Islanders emerged as the night’s biggest winners, clinching the first overall pick despite having just a 3.5% chance—the 10th-best odds. This marks their first top selection since drafting John Tavares in 2009. The winning combination of ping pong balls—7-11-12-13—sealed their unexpected victory.
With this pick, the Islanders are poised to select from a strong pool of prospects, including defenseman Matthew Schaefer, center Michael Misa, and winger Porter Martone. Schaefer, despite injury setbacks, is ranked highest among scouting reports, while Misa and Martone bring offensive prowess and versatility.
📊 Full Top 16 Draft Order
The complete order for the first 16 picks, determined by the lottery and regular-season standings, is as follows:
- New York Islanders
- San Jose Sharks
- Chicago Blackhawks
- Utah Hockey Club
- Nashville Predators
- Philadelphia Flyers
- Boston Bruins
- Seattle Kraken
- Buffalo Sabres
- Anaheim Ducks
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- New York Rangers
- Detroit Red Wings
- Columbus Blue Jackets
- Vancouver Canucks
- Montreal Canadiens (via Calgary Flames)RedditNHL+13NHL+13FloHockey+13FloHockey+1NHL+1
🔍 Notable Team Movements
- Utah Hockey Club: Achieved a significant leap from the 14th spot to 4th overall, marking a milestone for the franchise.
- Boston Bruins: Experienced a drop from their projected 5th pick to 7th, marking their first top-seven selection since 2006.
- Montreal Canadiens: Acquired the 16th pick from the Calgary Flames, completing the trade involving Sean Monahan.
📅 Upcoming Draft Details
The 2025 NHL Draft is scheduled to take place at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
- Round 1: June 27 at 7 p.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN+, SN, TVAS)
- Rounds 2-7: June 28 at Noon ET (NHLN, ESPN+, SN, SN1)
