2025 NHL Entry Draft: Virtual Participation for Teams
Los Angeles to Host the Event
The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced that the 2025 NHL Entry Draft will take place on Friday, June 27, and Saturday, June 28, in Los Angeles, California. The event will be held at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater, marking the return of the draft to the City of Angels after a 15-year absence.
Virtual Participation for Team Executives
A notable change in this year’s draft is the decentralized format for team executives, scouts, and coaches. While top prospects, media, and fans will be present in Los Angeles, team representatives will participate virtually. This move aims to accommodate the draft’s proximity to the July 1 start of free agency.
Last Year’s Draft and Top Prospects
In 2022, the draft was held at The Sphere in Las Vegas, Nevada, and saw Macklin Celebrini go first overall to the San Jose Sharks. For the 2025 draft, Erie (Pennsylvania) defenseman Matthew Schaefer and Boston College center James Hagens lead the North American prospect rankings, while Djurgarden (Sweden) right wing Victor Eklund and center Anton Frondell top the international prospect list.
Event Details
Dates and Times:
- Friday, June 27: First round (times TBD)
- Saturday, June 28: Rounds 2-7 (times TBD)
Location:
- L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater, Los Angeles, California
Broadcast Information:
- First day: ESPN
- Second day: NHL Network
- Both days: ESPN+
Eligible Streaming Services:
- Fubo
- Sling
Draft Lottery Prospects
The draft lottery will be held at a later date, but the San Jose Sharks and Chicago Blackhawks currently hold the NHL’s worst records and thus have the highest odds of securing the first overall pick.
Historical Context
The last time the NHL Entry Draft was held in Los Angeles was in 2010, when Taylor Hall went first overall to the Edmonton Oilers. The draft has since rotated between various cities, including Chicago (2015), Philadelphia (2017), Vancouver (2019), Buffalo (2021), and Montreal (2023).
Impact of the Decentralized Format
The decentralized format for team executives has its pros and cons. On the one hand, it allows teams to evaluate prospects more efficiently and make informed decisions without geographical restrictions. However, it also diminishes the camaraderie and excitement that comes with a traditional draft atmosphere.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 NHL Entry Draft promises to be an exciting event, shaping the future of the league. With a strong cast of prospects and a unique virtual participation format, it will be a memorable occasion for all involved.
