You can blame me...I wasn't all that clear.

It would be awesome to somehow walk away with Schaefer and Hagens, though. Probably won't happen, but maybe years down the road if he turns into a star we can lure him away in free agency and some other team's fan base will go ballistic over his Islanders pajamas.
- UIF

Does anyone have any Islanders pajamas we could mail him?

I get the hometown angle on Hagens. My only concern is his size. If he plays more like a Brayden Point (5’11/175) than a Jack Hughes (5’11/175), than I’m all in. After seeing JH during four nations, I wouldn’t want him on my team for playoff hockey.

I get the hometown angle on Hagens. My only concern is his size. If he plays more like a Brayden Point (5’11/175) than a Jack Hughes (5’11/175), than I’m all in. After seeing JH during four nations, I wouldn’t want him on my team for playoff hockey.
- streaks

That's a good point (pun intended). Size counts, but there are big guys who play like they're small (ahem--Engvall--ahem); and then there are small guys who play like they're big (Point is a good example). And in the playoffs, you don't want the guys who play small.

Free agency should be virtually non-existent for the Isles, outside of their own guys that need contracts. Foudy probably steps in to replace Martin/Fasching. George/Perunovich will probably compete for the 3rd pair LHD spot. Maybe Boqvist comes back as another extra defenseman. Maybe they re-sign Palmieri. Maybe they sign a 3C-type player for a year so Cizikas can remain as the center on the 4th line and the hypothetical 3C can be flipped for assets at the deadline. But it should be a relatively quiet July 1st for the Isles, I would imagine, unless they make a trade and create a hole that needs to be filled.
- Gabe Athaus

If they trade a vet like Pulock, Lee and or Palms etc. why shouldn’t they be interested in signing a younger better player in FA?
Marner, Boeser are pretty good players and would fill a hole.
Just my opinion of course, however you’re getting younger and upping the talent on the team.

Stefan Rosner

What happens with contract negotiations when a team doesn’t have a president and/or general manager in place?

The answer: nothing.

With no one to negotiate with, the Islanders’ pending restricted and unrestricted free agents must wait patiently for a hiring before their agents can begin contract negotiations.

When I say begin, the expectation is that—who knows what contracts were signed and stashed in that proverbial drawer—any conversations between agents and Lou Lamoriello likely carry no weight when the agent and the new executive get to the negotiating tables.

Here’s a list of the Islanders’ restricted free agents: Noah Dobson, Alexander Romanov, Simon Holmstrom, Maxim Tsyplakov, Adam Boqvist, and Scott Perunovich.

Here’s a list of the Islanders’ unrestricted free agents: Kyle Palmieri, Hudson Fasching, Matt Martin, Mike Reilly, and Tony DeAngelo.

For RFAs, there’s not too much risk in waiting because the Islanders own their rights.

Qualifying offers are due to RFAs by June 30, with the decision deadline on July 15. If the player elects not to sign, they become free agents. A player may elect not to sign their QO, a two-way deal, and instead sign a one-year deal that is a one-way contract.

A two-way contract means that a player gets paid differently from the NHL to the AHL. A one-way contract means the player gets paid the same amount regardless of where they are.

We saw this with Holmstrom last season, where he opted not to sign his $871,145 QO. He took less, signing a one-year, one-way deal worth $850,000.

Now, outside of Boqvist and Perunovich, it’s unlikely that the other names are agreeing to their qualifying offers.

Dobson, Romanov, Tsyplakov, and Holmstrom are expected to sign longer-term extensions this summer.

For a player like Noah Dobson and his agent, Olivier Fortier, having him play for Team Canada at the 2025 World Championships could have some kind of benefit after what was a tough season.

For a player like Simon Holmstrom and his agent, J.P. Barry, him not making Team Sweden at the World Championships and showing what he can do against the best in the world could play a part.

Unlike Dobson, Holmstrom had a strong 2024-25 season, a breakout season. But hey, you never know what will be discussed in these negotiations.

Where things get a bit dicey for both sides is with the UFAs.

The more time that goes by, the more likely it is that comparable players to certain UFAs will sign their deals, which will set the market for that player.

For example, the Islanders and Kyle Palmieri’s camp discussed an extension around the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline, continuing to hammer away until the end of the season.

We heard a multi-year deal was on the table worth under his expiring $5 million annual cap hit.

But come season’s end, it didn’t appear that an extension had been signed.

Taylor Hall signed a three-year deal worth $3.16 million annually with the Carolina Hurricanes on Apr. 30, a comparable contract that could impact Palmieri's current salary despite what was previously discussed.

The good news for the Islanders regarding their UFAs is that they all voiced a desire to remain on Long Island. Decisions will have to be made, and things will happen quickly following the NHL Draft on June 27 & 28, with NHL Free Agency beginning on July 1.

While teams can’t officially talk with other team’s free agents until that date, it’s clear that things happen fast. Teams need to have plans in place, most already making clear decisions on their pending FAs.

Outside of contract negotiations, there’s other things that the incoming POHO/GM needs to deal with, likley before the draft.

What are the Islanders doing with Pierre Engvall and the remaining four years on his deal at $3 million? What does the future hold for Anthony Duclair on Long Island after he asked and was granted a leave of absence by the team with eight games to go after head coach Patrick Roy called him out?

Duclair has three years left on his deal at $4.5 million, with a full no-trade clause.

I don’t think either player will be bought out. The buyout window does open on June 15 or 48 hours after the Stanley Cup Final ends (whichever is later).

Then, you have decisions about the already contract players, who could potentially be on the move either at the draft or at some point this summer.

I’m not sitting here and telling you guys that the Islanders should be rushing to fill their managerial hole. I actually have been vocal about how they should be taking their time.

But in an ideal world, their search would wrap up over the next week or so, and all the necessary contract negotiations would take place with ample time to get things done and make decisions well before the 2025 NHL Draft.

Thought this was an interesting excercise:

Ranking 2025 NHL Draft prospects by skill sets suited for Stanley Cup playoffs

By Corey Pronman

May 16, 2025 Updated 10:28 am EDT

It’s no secret that the game changes in the NHL once April rolls around. The postseason is way more physical than the regular season, and what gets called in November doesn’t always get called in the spring. This list re-orders my 2025 NHL Draft big board through the lens of playoff hockey, emphasizing players who have great pace, physicality and compete level.

1. Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie Otters (OHL)
Original rank: 1
It’s easy to envision Schaefer playing half of some playoff games. His skating will be an impact trait with how well he kills plays and transitions pucks up ice. He’s hard to play against and gives a consistently great effort on top of having a lot of offense in his game. He has star potential and could be a foundational piece of a winning team.

2. Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Original rank: 2
Misa thrives in transition. He’s not going to run opponents over, but he attacks through high-end speed and skill, and competes well enough to win plenty of pucks. He will more than be able to handle the postseason pace while providing plenty of offense.

3. Porter Martone, RW, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL)
Original rank: 3
Martone brings a rare mix of size, touch and edge. His skating is a question, but playoff hockey suits his game. He can lean on defenders, battle net-front and create plenty of chances in the high-percentage areas.

4. Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
Original rank: 4
Desnoyers is a coach’s dream down the middle. He’s efficient, plays a full 200-foot game and has the skating and size to survive grinding series. He can match up against top lines and hold his own. In a playoff context, he projects as a dependable all-situations pivot who is detailed without the puck and can provide scoring as well.

5. Jake O’Brien, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
Original rank: 7
O’Brien is known for his high-end hockey sense. But what is really appealing about O’Brien is that, on top of his flashy plays, he creates a ton of offense right at the net, especially at even-strength. He’s not physical, but he plays with courage and between that, his 6-2 frame and decent enough quickness, he could absolutely make an impact at the top level.

6. Roger McQueen, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
Original rank: 9
McQueen brings a tantalizing toolkit. He’s massive, fast and is very skilled. If he were perfectly healthy, I would probably put him third in this exercise. His injury history is the only true hedge in his projection.

7. Anton Frondell, C, Djurgarden (Allsvenskan)
Original rank: 6
Frondell plays with an edge, competes well and has enough offense to be dangerous. His versatility as a forward who can play with pace, dangle, finish chances or battle in traffic makes him playoff-relevant. He’s physically mature and has shown he can score versus men.

8. Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie Colts (OHL)
Original rank: 11
Aitcheson competes hard, finishes hits, fights and embraces contact. His skating is good enough to close space, and while he won’t run a power play, he can log tough defensive minutes and provide secondary offense. He’s the kind of defender teams win with.

9. Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
Original rank: 12
With his size and skating, Mrtka is an ideal player to log heavy minutes in the postseason. His skating eats up ice quickly, he breaks up a lot of plays and is poised under pressure, making quick plays with the puck.

10. Victor Eklund, LW, Djurgarden (Allsvenskan)
Original rank: 8
Eklund is small but fearless. He plays fast, with edge and consistently gets under opponents’ skin. His feet allow him to win races and stay disruptive. In a high-tempo, high-pressure series, he will be valuable even though he’s 5-foot-11.

11. James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)
Original rank: 5
This is the controversial one. Hagens’ skating and skill are undeniable, he’s the most talented offensive player in the draft. But he’s small, not overly physical, and against bigger players this season in college, he got pushed to the outside too much. College isn’t junior, and he looked excellent at the World Juniors with no issues on his compete, but if college defenders gave him trouble, how will NHL defensemen do when the refs put their whistles away?

12. Daniil Prokhorov, LW, Dynamo St. Petersburg (MHL)
Original rank: 22
Prokhorov plays heavy, straight-line hockey. He’s a big winger who finishes a lot of checks. He isn’t dynamic, but he has enough speed and skill to earn minutes and be trusted when the games get difficult.

13. Brady Martin, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Original rank: 10
Martin is relentless. He’s a highly physical forward who makes life hellish for opponents. He is also a highly skilled forward who can create offense off the rush. The only reason a guy like him isn’t higher is the questions on whether he is going to be this major physical force at 6 feet.

14. Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
Original rank: 21
Fiddler is big, mobile, physical and simple. His puck play may stress coaches out at times, but you look at what Brandon Carlo has brought to teams and Fiddler could do the same thing.

15. Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)
Original rank: 19
Smith’s U18 worlds and hockey sense concern some evaluators, but at the end of the day, he’s still huge, skates well and has legit offense in his game. That’s the kind of profile that will just be fed minutes at the premier level of hockey.

16. Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
Original rank: 20
Like Smith, Boumedienne’s puck play and decisions cause scouts some concern. The profile, though, is clearly NHL quality: 6-foot-2, high-end skating and good enough puck play. He absolutely can be his own worst enemy and will give coaches some (extra) grey hairs, but they will still rely on him more than a small puck-mover or a slow big guy.

17. Justin Carbonneau, RW, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
Original rank: 16
Carbonneau isn’t a great playmaker, but he’s a straight-line winger with legit NHL speed, hands and goal-scoring ability. He competes hard and will win battles in the postseason.

18. Joshua Ravensbergen, G, Prince George Cougars (WHL)
Original rank: 17
Postseason goaltending is about competing and being able to make the toughest saves. Ravensbergen does that, showing tendencies to make stops in the high-percentage areas and unique athleticism.

19. Malcolm Spence, LW, Erie Otters (OHL)
Original rank: 25
Spence doesn’t dazzle but plays the kind of steady, hard game that wears down opponents. He gets to a lot of pucks through his speed and effort and excels in the middle third of the offensive zone.

20. Braeden Cootes, C, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
Original rank: 14
Cootes has a good motor, plays fast and makes a lot of plays with the puck. His skill for his size isn’t special, but he will play regular minutes. You’re hoping for a Vincent Trocheck/J.T. Compher type if he hits.

21. Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
Original rank: 18
Reid isn’t that big, but he’s a tremendous skater who competes hard. He closes on pucks quickly and transitions well, with the potential to have secondary offense in the NHL.

22. Henry Brzustewicz, D, London Knights (OHL)
Original rank: 29
He’s developed into a strong two-way defenseman with skating and size who has fought a few times this season and doesn’t shy away from the physical elements. He makes a good first pass and won’t hurt his team.

23. Simon Wang, D, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
Original rank: 42
Wang has a huge frame and solid feet. His puck play is very raw and may never truly come, but he’s a clear NHL athlete with bite in his game. If he develops even a little touch, coaches will roll him in the playoffs.

24. Carter Bear, RW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)
Original rank: 15
Bear is a likable player. He’s very skilled, competes well and is a decent enough skater. He’s an average-sized winger who isn’t truly special at anything, though, so I can see that player type not being as valuable in the playoffs.

25. William Horcoff, LW, Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)
Original rank: 30
Horcoff is a heavy skater, but he’s big, creative and can score. He makes smart plays and will be able to get inside versus NHL defenders.

26. Lynden Lakovic, RW, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
Original rank: 23
Lakovic has top 10-15 tools. He’s big, fast, skilled and has a great shot, but his game is quite unlikable some nights. Scouts carve up his effort and decisions, and I can see him testing a coach’s patience when everything is on the line.

27. Milton Gastrin, C, MODO (SHL)
Original rank: 24
Gastrin is responsible and steady, with good enough overall talent to be reliable at even strength.

28. Eddie Genborg, LW, Linkoping (SHL)
Original rank: 37
Genborg’s hockey sense and overall scoring touch are concerns, but he’s big, fast and highly physical. If he scores a little bit, a coach will bend over backwards to get him into the game, and I think he can cross that bar.

29. Cole Reschny, C, Victoria Royals (WHL)
Original rank: 13
I love Reschny as a player and have him rated way higher on my main list. He’s super clever and skilled, but his size and skating could limit him in physical, high-speed playoff series.

30. Jack Nesbitt, C, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
Original rank: 26
Nesbitt is big, physical and skilled, but his skating is a major issue when the game is at its fastest.

31. Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, LW, Lulea (SHL)
Original rank: 32
Ihs-Wozniak has a great shot, a big frame and is overall talented, but he doesn’t bring it every shift. Playoff hockey demands more urgency than he’s shown at points this season.

32. Bill Zonnon, C, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)
Original rank: 27
Zonnon has a solid all-around skill set. He will earn NHL minutes, but I’m not sure which special team he would be slotted into on a contender.

Thought this was an interesting excercise:

Ranking 2025 NHL Draft prospects by skill sets suited for Stanley Cup playoffs

By Corey Pronman

May 16, 2025 Updated 10:28 am EDT

It’s no secret that the game changes in the NHL once April rolls around. The postseason is way more physical than the regular season, and what gets called in November doesn’t always get called in the spring. This list re-orders my 2025 NHL Draft big board through the lens of playoff hockey, emphasizing players who have great pace, physicality and compete level.

1. Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie Otters (OHL)
Original rank: 1
It’s easy to envision Schaefer playing half of some playoff games. His skating will be an impact trait with how well he kills plays and transitions pucks up ice. He’s hard to play against and gives a consistently great effort on top of having a lot of offense in his game. He has star potential and could be a foundational piece of a winning team.

2. Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Original rank: 2
Misa thrives in transition. He’s not going to run opponents over, but he attacks through high-end speed and skill, and competes well enough to win plenty of pucks. He will more than be able to handle the postseason pace while providing plenty of offense.

3. Porter Martone, RW, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL)
Original rank: 3
Martone brings a rare mix of size, touch and edge. His skating is a question, but playoff hockey suits his game. He can lean on defenders, battle net-front and create plenty of chances in the high-percentage areas.

4. Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
Original rank: 4
Desnoyers is a coach’s dream down the middle. He’s efficient, plays a full 200-foot game and has the skating and size to survive grinding series. He can match up against top lines and hold his own. In a playoff context, he projects as a dependable all-situations pivot who is detailed without the puck and can provide scoring as well.

5. Jake O’Brien, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
Original rank: 7
O’Brien is known for his high-end hockey sense. But what is really appealing about O’Brien is that, on top of his flashy plays, he creates a ton of offense right at the net, especially at even-strength. He’s not physical, but he plays with courage and between that, his 6-2 frame and decent enough quickness, he could absolutely make an impact at the top level.

6. Roger McQueen, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
Original rank: 9
McQueen brings a tantalizing toolkit. He’s massive, fast and is very skilled. If he were perfectly healthy, I would probably put him third in this exercise. His injury history is the only true hedge in his projection.

7. Anton Frondell, C, Djurgarden (Allsvenskan)
Original rank: 6
Frondell plays with an edge, competes well and has enough offense to be dangerous. His versatility as a forward who can play with pace, dangle, finish chances or battle in traffic makes him playoff-relevant. He’s physically mature and has shown he can score versus men.

8. Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie Colts (OHL)
Original rank: 11
Aitcheson competes hard, finishes hits, fights and embraces contact. His skating is good enough to close space, and while he won’t run a power play, he can log tough defensive minutes and provide secondary offense. He’s the kind of defender teams win with.

9. Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
Original rank: 12
With his size and skating, Mrtka is an ideal player to log heavy minutes in the postseason. His skating eats up ice quickly, he breaks up a lot of plays and is poised under pressure, making quick plays with the puck.

10. Victor Eklund, LW, Djurgarden (Allsvenskan)
Original rank: 8
Eklund is small but fearless. He plays fast, with edge and consistently gets under opponents’ skin. His feet allow him to win races and stay disruptive. In a high-tempo, high-pressure series, he will be valuable even though he’s 5-foot-11.

11. James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)
Original rank: 5
This is the controversial one. Hagens’ skating and skill are undeniable, he’s the most talented offensive player in the draft. But he’s small, not overly physical, and against bigger players this season in college, he got pushed to the outside too much. College isn’t junior, and he looked excellent at the World Juniors with no issues on his compete, but if college defenders gave him trouble, how will NHL defensemen do when the refs put their whistles away?

12. Daniil Prokhorov, LW, Dynamo St. Petersburg (MHL)
Original rank: 22
Prokhorov plays heavy, straight-line hockey. He’s a big winger who finishes a lot of checks. He isn’t dynamic, but he has enough speed and skill to earn minutes and be trusted when the games get difficult.

13. Brady Martin, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Original rank: 10
Martin is relentless. He’s a highly physical forward who makes life hellish for opponents. He is also a highly skilled forward who can create offense off the rush. The only reason a guy like him isn’t higher is the questions on whether he is going to be this major physical force at 6 feet.

14. Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
Original rank: 21
Fiddler is big, mobile, physical and simple. His puck play may stress coaches out at times, but you look at what Brandon Carlo has brought to teams and Fiddler could do the same thing.

15. Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)
Original rank: 19
Smith’s U18 worlds and hockey sense concern some evaluators, but at the end of the day, he’s still huge, skates well and has legit offense in his game. That’s the kind of profile that will just be fed minutes at the premier level of hockey.

16. Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
Original rank: 20
Like Smith, Boumedienne’s puck play and decisions cause scouts some concern. The profile, though, is clearly NHL quality: 6-foot-2, high-end skating and good enough puck play. He absolutely can be his own worst enemy and will give coaches some (extra) grey hairs, but they will still rely on him more than a small puck-mover or a slow big guy.

17. Justin Carbonneau, RW, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
Original rank: 16
Carbonneau isn’t a great playmaker, but he’s a straight-line winger with legit NHL speed, hands and goal-scoring ability. He competes hard and will win battles in the postseason.

18. Joshua Ravensbergen, G, Prince George Cougars (WHL)
Original rank: 17
Postseason goaltending is about competing and being able to make the toughest saves. Ravensbergen does that, showing tendencies to make stops in the high-percentage areas and unique athleticism.

19. Malcolm Spence, LW, Erie Otters (OHL)
Original rank: 25
Spence doesn’t dazzle but plays the kind of steady, hard game that wears down opponents. He gets to a lot of pucks through his speed and effort and excels in the middle third of the offensive zone.

20. Braeden Cootes, C, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
Original rank: 14
Cootes has a good motor, plays fast and makes a lot of plays with the puck. His skill for his size isn’t special, but he will play regular minutes. You’re hoping for a Vincent Trocheck/J.T. Compher type if he hits.

21. Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
Original rank: 18
Reid isn’t that big, but he’s a tremendous skater who competes hard. He closes on pucks quickly and transitions well, with the potential to have secondary offense in the NHL.

22. Henry Brzustewicz, D, London Knights (OHL)
Original rank: 29
He’s developed into a strong two-way defenseman with skating and size who has fought a few times this season and doesn’t shy away from the physical elements. He makes a good first pass and won’t hurt his team.

23. Simon Wang, D, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
Original rank: 42
Wang has a huge frame and solid feet. His puck play is very raw and may never truly come, but he’s a clear NHL athlete with bite in his game. If he develops even a little touch, coaches will roll him in the playoffs.

24. Carter Bear, RW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)
Original rank: 15
Bear is a likable player. He’s very skilled, competes well and is a decent enough skater. He’s an average-sized winger who isn’t truly special at anything, though, so I can see that player type not being as valuable in the playoffs.

25. William Horcoff, LW, Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)
Original rank: 30
Horcoff is a heavy skater, but he’s big, creative and can score. He makes smart plays and will be able to get inside versus NHL defenders.

26. Lynden Lakovic, RW, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
Original rank: 23
Lakovic has top 10-15 tools. He’s big, fast, skilled and has a great shot, but his game is quite unlikable some nights. Scouts carve up his effort and decisions, and I can see him testing a coach’s patience when everything is on the line.

27. Milton Gastrin, C, MODO (SHL)
Original rank: 24
Gastrin is responsible and steady, with good enough overall talent to be reliable at even strength.

28. Eddie Genborg, LW, Linkoping (SHL)
Original rank: 37
Genborg’s hockey sense and overall scoring touch are concerns, but he’s big, fast and highly physical. If he scores a little bit, a coach will bend over backwards to get him into the game, and I think he can cross that bar.

29. Cole Reschny, C, Victoria Royals (WHL)
Original rank: 13
I love Reschny as a player and have him rated way higher on my main list. He’s super clever and skilled, but his size and skating could limit him in physical, high-speed playoff series.

30. Jack Nesbitt, C, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
Original rank: 26
Nesbitt is big, physical and skilled, but his skating is a major issue when the game is at its fastest.

31. Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, LW, Lulea (SHL)
Original rank: 32
Ihs-Wozniak has a great shot, a big frame and is overall talented, but he doesn’t bring it every shift. Playoff hockey demands more urgency than he’s shown at points this season.

32. Bill Zonnon, C, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)
Original rank: 27
Zonnon has a solid all-around skill set. He will earn NHL minutes, but I’m not sure which special team he would be slotted into on a contender.
- Gabe Athaus

Wow, Hagens' star has really fallen! From 1st to 11th. Watch the Rangers draft him.

Wow, Hagens' star has really fallen! From 1st to 11th. Watch the Rangers draft him.

- JohnScammo

This is just Pronman's ranking of how he rates the prospects by how he sees their skill sets in the playoffs only, not his actual ranking

Thought this was an interesting excercise:

Ranking 2025 NHL Draft prospects by skill sets suited for Stanley Cup playoffs

By Corey Pronman

May 16, 2025 Updated 10:28 am EDT

It’s no secret that the game changes in the NHL once April rolls around. The postseason is way more physical than the regular season, and what gets called in November doesn’t always get called in the spring. This list re-orders my 2025 NHL Draft big board through the lens of playoff hockey, emphasizing players who have great pace, physicality and compete level.

1. Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie Otters (OHL)
Original rank: 1
It’s easy to envision Schaefer playing half of some playoff games. His skating will be an impact trait with how well he kills plays and transitions pucks up ice. He’s hard to play against and gives a consistently great effort on top of having a lot of offense in his game. He has star potential and could be a foundational piece of a winning team.

2. Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Original rank: 2
Misa thrives in transition. He’s not going to run opponents over, but he attacks through high-end speed and skill, and competes well enough to win plenty of pucks. He will more than be able to handle the postseason pace while providing plenty of offense.

3. Porter Martone, RW, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL)
Original rank: 3
Martone brings a rare mix of size, touch and edge. His skating is a question, but playoff hockey suits his game. He can lean on defenders, battle net-front and create plenty of chances in the high-percentage areas.

4. Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
Original rank: 4
Desnoyers is a coach’s dream down the middle. He’s efficient, plays a full 200-foot game and has the skating and size to survive grinding series. He can match up against top lines and hold his own. In a playoff context, he projects as a dependable all-situations pivot who is detailed without the puck and can provide scoring as well.

5. Jake O’Brien, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
Original rank: 7
O’Brien is known for his high-end hockey sense. But what is really appealing about O’Brien is that, on top of his flashy plays, he creates a ton of offense right at the net, especially at even-strength. He’s not physical, but he plays with courage and between that, his 6-2 frame and decent enough quickness, he could absolutely make an impact at the top level.

6. Roger McQueen, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
Original rank: 9
McQueen brings a tantalizing toolkit. He’s massive, fast and is very skilled. If he were perfectly healthy, I would probably put him third in this exercise. His injury history is the only true hedge in his projection.

7. Anton Frondell, C, Djurgarden (Allsvenskan)
Original rank: 6
Frondell plays with an edge, competes well and has enough offense to be dangerous. His versatility as a forward who can play with pace, dangle, finish chances or battle in traffic makes him playoff-relevant. He’s physically mature and has shown he can score versus men.

8. Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie Colts (OHL)
Original rank: 11
Aitcheson competes hard, finishes hits, fights and embraces contact. His skating is good enough to close space, and while he won’t run a power play, he can log tough defensive minutes and provide secondary offense. He’s the kind of defender teams win with.

9. Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
Original rank: 12
With his size and skating, Mrtka is an ideal player to log heavy minutes in the postseason. His skating eats up ice quickly, he breaks up a lot of plays and is poised under pressure, making quick plays with the puck.

10. Victor Eklund, LW, Djurgarden (Allsvenskan)
Original rank: 8
Eklund is small but fearless. He plays fast, with edge and consistently gets under opponents’ skin. His feet allow him to win races and stay disruptive. In a high-tempo, high-pressure series, he will be valuable even though he’s 5-foot-11.

11. James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)
Original rank: 5
This is the controversial one. Hagens’ skating and skill are undeniable, he’s the most talented offensive player in the draft. But he’s small, not overly physical, and against bigger players this season in college, he got pushed to the outside too much. College isn’t junior, and he looked excellent at the World Juniors with no issues on his compete, but if college defenders gave him trouble, how will NHL defensemen do when the refs put their whistles away?

12. Daniil Prokhorov, LW, Dynamo St. Petersburg (MHL)
Original rank: 22
Prokhorov plays heavy, straight-line hockey. He’s a big winger who finishes a lot of checks. He isn’t dynamic, but he has enough speed and skill to earn minutes and be trusted when the games get difficult.

13. Brady Martin, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Original rank: 10
Martin is relentless. He’s a highly physical forward who makes life hellish for opponents. He is also a highly skilled forward who can create offense off the rush. The only reason a guy like him isn’t higher is the questions on whether he is going to be this major physical force at 6 feet.

14. Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
Original rank: 21
Fiddler is big, mobile, physical and simple. His puck play may stress coaches out at times, but you look at what Brandon Carlo has brought to teams and Fiddler could do the same thing.

15. Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)
Original rank: 19
Smith’s U18 worlds and hockey sense concern some evaluators, but at the end of the day, he’s still huge, skates well and has legit offense in his game. That’s the kind of profile that will just be fed minutes at the premier level of hockey.

16. Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
Original rank: 20
Like Smith, Boumedienne’s puck play and decisions cause scouts some concern. The profile, though, is clearly NHL quality: 6-foot-2, high-end skating and good enough puck play. He absolutely can be his own worst enemy and will give coaches some (extra) grey hairs, but they will still rely on him more than a small puck-mover or a slow big guy.

17. Justin Carbonneau, RW, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
Original rank: 16
Carbonneau isn’t a great playmaker, but he’s a straight-line winger with legit NHL speed, hands and goal-scoring ability. He competes hard and will win battles in the postseason.

18. Joshua Ravensbergen, G, Prince George Cougars (WHL)
Original rank: 17
Postseason goaltending is about competing and being able to make the toughest saves. Ravensbergen does that, showing tendencies to make stops in the high-percentage areas and unique athleticism.

19. Malcolm Spence, LW, Erie Otters (OHL)
Original rank: 25
Spence doesn’t dazzle but plays the kind of steady, hard game that wears down opponents. He gets to a lot of pucks through his speed and effort and excels in the middle third of the offensive zone.

20. Braeden Cootes, C, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
Original rank: 14
Cootes has a good motor, plays fast and makes a lot of plays with the puck. His skill for his size isn’t special, but he will play regular minutes. You’re hoping for a Vincent Trocheck/J.T. Compher type if he hits.

21. Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
Original rank: 18
Reid isn’t that big, but he’s a tremendous skater who competes hard. He closes on pucks quickly and transitions well, with the potential to have secondary offense in the NHL.

22. Henry Brzustewicz, D, London Knights (OHL)
Original rank: 29
He’s developed into a strong two-way defenseman with skating and size who has fought a few times this season and doesn’t shy away from the physical elements. He makes a good first pass and won’t hurt his team.

23. Simon Wang, D, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
Original rank: 42
Wang has a huge frame and solid feet. His puck play is very raw and may never truly come, but he’s a clear NHL athlete with bite in his game. If he develops even a little touch, coaches will roll him in the playoffs.

24. Carter Bear, RW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)
Original rank: 15
Bear is a likable player. He’s very skilled, competes well and is a decent enough skater. He’s an average-sized winger who isn’t truly special at anything, though, so I can see that player type not being as valuable in the playoffs.

25. William Horcoff, LW, Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)
Original rank: 30
Horcoff is a heavy skater, but he’s big, creative and can score. He makes smart plays and will be able to get inside versus NHL defenders.

26. Lynden Lakovic, RW, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
Original rank: 23
Lakovic has top 10-15 tools. He’s big, fast, skilled and has a great shot, but his game is quite unlikable some nights. Scouts carve up his effort and decisions, and I can see him testing a coach’s patience when everything is on the line.

27. Milton Gastrin, C, MODO (SHL)
Original rank: 24
Gastrin is responsible and steady, with good enough overall talent to be reliable at even strength.

28. Eddie Genborg, LW, Linkoping (SHL)
Original rank: 37
Genborg’s hockey sense and overall scoring touch are concerns, but he’s big, fast and highly physical. If he scores a little bit, a coach will bend over backwards to get him into the game, and I think he can cross that bar.

29. Cole Reschny, C, Victoria Royals (WHL)
Original rank: 13
I love Reschny as a player and have him rated way higher on my main list. He’s super clever and skilled, but his size and skating could limit him in physical, high-speed playoff series.

30. Jack Nesbitt, C, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
Original rank: 26
Nesbitt is big, physical and skilled, but his skating is a major issue when the game is at its fastest.

31. Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, LW, Lulea (SHL)
Original rank: 32
Ihs-Wozniak has a great shot, a big frame and is overall talented, but he doesn’t bring it every shift. Playoff hockey demands more urgency than he’s shown at points this season.

32. Bill Zonnon, C, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)
Original rank: 27
Zonnon has a solid all-around skill set. He will earn NHL minutes, but I’m not sure which special team he would be slotted into on a contender.
- Gabe Athaus

This is kind of what I was eluding to with my comments on Hagens.

Wow, Hagens' star has really fallen! From 1st to 11th. Watch the Rangers draft him.

- JohnScammo

Who knows what the criteria used for this is. Besides Pronman saying he’s 5’11” so he should be ranked at #11 as far as Stanley Cup potential is concerned don’t really see how this could be considered anything really. These guys can’t even accurately figure out where these kids SHOULD be selected 90% of the time now they are predicting how good they’ll be in the playoffs probably five years from now? NHL draft lottery is the biggest crap shot in professional sports. This is stupid stuff.

We better hope Hagens doesn’t go to the Rangers. Kid is going to be a good player.

This is just Pronman's ranking of how he rates the prospects by how he sees their skill sets in the playoffs only, not his actual ranking
- Gabe Athaus

Yup, I read that. Nevertheless, playoff hockey is what really counts, so it shouldn't be disregarded.

Who knows what the criteria used for this is. Besides Pronman saying he’s 5’11” so he should be ranked at #11 as far as Stanley Cup potential is concerned don’t really see how this could be considered anything really. These guys can’t even accurately figure out where these kids SHOULD be selected 90% of the time now they are predicting how good they’ll be in the playoffs probably five years from now? NHL draft lottery is the biggest crap shot in professional sports. This is stupid stuff.

We better hope Hagens doesn’t go to the Rangers. Kid is going to be a good player.
- Cptmjl

No doubt Hagens is going to be good. And yes, the draft is indeed a crapshoot. It's been that way for 45 years, since they lowered the draft age to 18.

Bottom line for me is the Islanders need to draft Schaefer.

Yup, I read that. Nevertheless, playoff hockey is what really counts, so it shouldn't be disregarded.
- JohnScammo

It should be disregarded because this in no way is any true predictor of what these kids will be in the NHL playoffs.

It should be disregarded because this in no way is any true predictor of what these kids will be in the NHL playoffs.
- Cptmjl

Well, yeah, like I said elsewhere, all these predictions are crapshoots. And this is just one guy's opinion. But trying to gauge how a kid might perform in the playoffs, as difficult as it is, is a necessary step for these GMs when evaluating the draft class. Will they be accurate? Who knows?

Well, yeah, like I said elsewhere, all these predictions are crapshoots. And this is just one guy's opinion. But trying to gauge how a kid might perform in the playoffs, as difficult as it is, is a necessary step for these GMs when evaluating the draft class. Will they be accurate? Who knows?
- JohnScammo

It was a NY Times article so it’s fake news.

Who knows what the criteria used for this is. Besides Pronman saying he’s 5’11” so he should be ranked at #11 as far as Stanley Cup potential is concerned don’t really see how this could be considered anything really. These guys can’t even accurately figure out where these kids SHOULD be selected 90% of the time now they are predicting how good they’ll be in the playoffs probably five years from now? NHL draft lottery is the biggest crap shot in professional sports. This is stupid stuff.

We better hope Hagens doesn’t go to the Rangers. Kid is going to be a good player.
- Cptmjl

If it’s such a crapshoot then who cares if the Rangers get him? I remember you saying you’re friends with the family, and pretty psyched for this kid. So I hope he has a long and healthy NHL career. But personally, I’d prefer the isles take Shaefer.

If it’s such a crapshoot then who cares if the Rangers get him? I remember you saying you’re friends with the family, and pretty psyched for this kid. So I hope he has a long and healthy NHL career. But personally, I’d prefer the isles take Shaefer.
- streaks

I fully expect the islanders to take Schaefer. Me saying these draft nerds are rarely right outside of sure thing picks has nothing to do with me being friends with Hagens family. It has to do with with them rarely being right in drafts like this one where there aren’t clear picks aka a Crosby, Bedard, etc. Now I’m supposed to take Pronman seriously when he’s predicting which one of these kids is going to be the best playoff performer? Give me a break.

I fully expect the islanders to take Schaefer. Me saying these draft nerds are rarely right outside of sure thing picks has nothing to do with me being friends with Hagens family. It has to do with with them rarely being right in drafts like this one where there aren’t clear picks aka a Crosby, Bedard, etc. Now I’m supposed to take Pronman seriously when he’s predicting which one of these kids is going to be the best playoff performer? Give me a break.
- Cptmjl

Agree, it’s definitely silly. Although I do have a preference for a bigger player if all other attributes are similar. Ive mentioned watching Hughes in the four nations as an example why. On a separate topic, are we going to auto draft this year if we don’t have a GM in place? 🤣

Agree, it’s definitely silly. Although I do have a preference for a bigger player if all other attributes are similar. Ive mentioned watching Hughes in the four nations as an example why. On a separate topic, are we going to auto draft this year if we don’t have a GM in place? 🤣
- streaks

The GM situation is unusual. Hoping they have someone in mind and they are just ironing out specifics. Hopefully they get that buttoned up soon.

If it’s such a crapshoot then who cares if the Rangers get him? I remember you saying you’re friends with the family, and pretty psyched for this kid. So I hope he has a long and healthy NHL career. But personally, I’d prefer the isles take Shaefer.
- streaks

Schaefer will be the pick. No GM needed to make that one. Kids a stud and the youngest of the lot.