The 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship is in the books, and the NHL draft lottery has already shaken up the board. With both out of the way, it’s officially time to take a fresh look at the top prospects heading into June’s NHL Draft.
These rankings are shaped by live viewings, direct insights from scouts, and an honest evaluation of which players have skills that will actually translate at the NHL level. Whether teams are looking for safe, high-floor talent or shooting their shot with a high-risk, high-reward unicorn, the top 5 has it all.
With all that considered, these are the top 5 players for the 2025 NHL draft.
1. Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie Otters (OHL)
Schaefer projects as a true No. 1 defenseman and franchise cornerstone. At 6-foot-2, he blends size with smooth skating and elite agility, shutting down attackers in one-on-one matchups while jumping into the rush to drive offense. Scouts across the league view him as a future elite NHL blueliner, someone who can anchor a top pair, handle tough assignments, and quarterback a power play. With his all-around skillset, Schaefer has the upside to become one of the league’s top 10 defensemen.
2. . Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Misa, who entered the OHL early with exceptional status, delivered a stunning 62-goal campaign in just 65 games. Cementing his place as one of the draft’s most electric scorers. His elite hockey IQ and ability to process plays at top speed make him NHL-ready today. If his development stays on track, Misa could become a franchise first-line center who produces at a point-per-game pace or better.
He’s also making strides defensively. His improved two-way play, paired with explosive skating and natural goal-scoring instincts, positions.
3. James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)
Hagens projects as either a high-end second-line center or a dependable top-line pivot. He combines speed, work ethic, and excellent defensive instincts to drive play in all three zones. His support game, puck battles, and anticipation are NHL-ready tools that will ease his transition into the league.
While he may return to Boston College for another season, Hagens is already one of the smartest players in his class.
4. Anton Frondell, C/RW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
Frondell is one of the most versatile forwards in this class, capable of playing center or wing at a high level. His standout performance in the Allsvenskan, one of the best by a U18 skater, has solidified his projection as a future top-line NHL forward. Scouts love his hockey IQ, slick puck-handling, and ability to dismantle defensive coverages in the offensive zone.
He thrives in transition and forechecks with intent, showing elite anticipation on both sides of the puck. Frondell already produces against pros in Sweden and is projected to be a 75–85 point player in the NHL.
5. Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City Americans (WHL)
Smith is the best shutdown defenseman in this class and a throwback in terms of physicality and grit. At 6’2″, he uses his size and skating to close gaps and neutralize rushes with consistency. His offensive game showed late-season flashes, especially at the U18s, where he impressed with confident puck movement.
Scouts believe Smith is a future top-four NHL defender, with upside to become a No. 2 if his offensive instincts continue to grow.
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