The annual NHL Draft Lottery is approaching and will determine the order of the first 16 selections. Teams that did not qualify for the playoffs are eagerly anticipating the results to choose players for reinforcement.
Although the 2025 draft class is not considered as strong as some recent ones, it still offers rebuilding teams the opportunity to add valuable personnel.
Each NHL team has its own strategy for building roster depth. Some emphasize size and physicality, while others look for power-play defensemen or versatile players. But generally, most teams follow the rule of selecting the “best available” prospect.
With this in mind, here is my perspective on the value of some top prospects before the lottery, as well as additional names to keep an eye on leading up to the June 27-28 draft.
Why Matthew Schaefer is Still No. 1
Erie Otters defenseman Matthew Schaefer remains at the top of my list, despite missing time due to a broken collarbone suffered at the World Juniors in Ottawa (around Christmas) and mononucleosis at the start of the season. He played only 17 games. However, his previous body of work and the impact he made when healthy are more significant to me.
Schaefer is a versatile player, utilized in all game situations. In his final 10 games for the Otters (before the WJC), he averaged over 29 minutes of ice time, tallying 4 goals and 10 assists, with a +13 rating. He plays fast and does not shy away from physical play.
Schaefer is projected to be a top-pairing defenseman in the NHL. The team that wins the lottery should not overthink it. He is the best player in this draft class and a prospect who will accelerate the rebuilding process.