ST. CLOUD — St. Cloud State men’s hockey coach Brett Larson expressed relief and excitement about changes coming to the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center.

After more than six years of asking for state funding to get a new refrigeration system for the arena’s two ice rinks,

the state Legislature passed an estimated $12.8 million in funding on June 9,

for a replacement. The original and outdated R-22 system was originally installed when the building opened in 1989.

“The ice plant was at a point where it could go down, which was a major concern,” Larson said. “The biggest thing for me, and our program, is the investment by the state into this university and into the hockey program. Having the ice and practice (rinks) shrunk. Bringing it down to a hybrid still gives us a home rink advantage and it was essential to the success of this program.”

With the funding passed, the plan is to begin construction work on the project in April 2026. With the new refrigeration system, the floors of both the main rink and the practice rink will have to be dug up to take out the old pipes and put in new ones.

The plan includes having the main rink shrunk so that it will be 200 feet long by 94 feet wide. The main rink has been 100 feet wide since it opened in 1989. It also includes shrinking the practice rink from Olympic sized (200 by 100) to be an NHL-sized rink (200 by 85).

“For years, everyone has wondered if the Olympic-sized sheet is a plus or a minus,” Larson said. “There’s probably a little bit of both. Now, with having the home ice advantage, but also being able to practice on an NHL-sized sheet so we don’t have as much transition when we go on the road sets us up for more success.”

Mick Hatten / St. Cloud LIVE

One of the differences when players play on the Olympic-sized sheet versus the NHL-sized sheet is the reaction time. With the smaller NHL-sized sheet, there is quicker reaction time to plays.

There are numbers to back up that SCSU could use an NHL-sized practice rink. Last season,

the Huskies

were 9-8-1 at home and 5-13 on the road.

“You can see our team on the road, it takes us sometimes a period to get acclimated to the size of the rink,” said Larson, who recently completed his seventh season as SCSU’s head coach. “In our league, games are so tight and every game matters so much that you don’t want to take a period to get acclimated. You want to be ready to go.

“Having the ability to practice on an NHL-sized rink all week, I think puts us in a better position to be more successful when we go on the road. In the old days, and even in some of the time since I’ve been here, we would go over to the MAC or to Sartell to get on an NHL-sized sheet, especially in playoffs. It’s just not ideal and a great experience for the players. Having this setup now, the hybrid on the main and the NHL on the practice (rink), it’s going to be the perfect for us.”

Getting new boards and plexiglass is also going to help the facility.

“For safety concerns, the old boards in here don’t move at all,” Larson said. “For the aesthetics of the building, we’re finally going to get into the 21st century with the structure of our building. When you add in the new boards, glass and lighting, it’s going to spruce up the arena.”

Contributed / Jason Soria, SCSU Athletics

There will be some adjustments for the St. Cloud State hockey players who train at the facility during the offseason. The construction project is likely to begin in April with the hope of having it ready to be used by the fall.

“It will be a little inconvenient for a summer, but there’s local ice in the area that our guys will be able to get on,” Larson said. “They’ll still have access to our weight room and locker room. We’ll just have to get through a short stretch of inconvenience, but it’s going to be well worth it.”

The Huskies, by the way, recently had their two-week summer camp at the Brooks Center. Larson said that all of the players on next season’s roster were able to make the camp other than goalies Patriks Berzins (Sabile, Latvia) and Yan Shostak (Minsk, Belarus) and

forward Verner Miettinen (Espoo, Finland).

All three of those players are from Europe and Larson does not ask overseas players to attend the camp. The camp is run mostly by SCSU strength and conditioning coach Jake Franczek and the players who will be seniors on next season’s roster.

“It’s a great chance for our freshmen to get in and get acclimated and get to know the team,” Larson said. “It’s also nice for the guys who are going to NHL development camps because they get training before they go off to those camps. Most of them will leave here the day after the draft.”

The NHL Draft will be held June 27-28 in Los Angeles.

SCSU will have five freshmen and three transfers join the team this fall.

The freshmen include forwards

Nolan Roed,

Noah Urness

and

Aiden Welch,

defenseman Tanner Henricks

and Shostak. The transfers are defensemen

Finn Loftus (Massachusetts)

and

Max Smolinski (RPI)

and

Berzins (Maine).

Mick Hatten / St. Cloud LIVE

Emerging Star in College Football

LaNorris Sellers is not merely catching attention for his impressive performances on the field; he is also making significant strides in the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). As he steps into the spotlight of college football in 2024, the South Carolina quarterback is proving that his influence extends well beyond the gridiron. With a keen understanding of personal branding, Sellers is positioning himself as a formidable presence in the NIL landscape.

A New Era of Athlete Branding

The landscape of college athletics has transformed dramatically with the advent of NIL opportunities, allowing athletes to monetize their personal brands. Sellers, a redshirt freshman, has embraced this change with remarkable agility. His recent achievement—a staggering $3.7 million NIL deal—solidifies his status alongside other notable athletes like Arch Manning and Garrett Nussmeier. This partnership not only underscores his potential as a player but also highlights a broader trend where young athletes are leveraging their visibility for lucrative endorsements.

Strategic Moves Off the Field

Sellers’ ascent in the NIL arena reflects a strategic approach to his career. He has cultivated a brand that resonates with fans and sponsors alike, showcasing his charisma and marketability. By aligning himself with high-profile endorsements, he is not just securing financial gains but also establishing a lasting legacy that could influence future generations of athletes. His knack for navigating this new terrain speaks volumes about his business acumen and foresight.

The Impact of NIL on College Athletics

The implications of NIL deals extend far beyond individual athletes. As more players like Sellers capitalize on these opportunities, the dynamics of college sports are shifting. Programs are now tasked with not only developing talent on the field but also fostering an environment where athletes can thrive off it. This evolution is redefining what it means to be a student-athlete in today’s competitive landscape, where personal branding is as crucial as athletic performance.

Looking Ahead

As LaNorris Sellers continues to make headlines, his journey serves as a testament to the changing nature of college athletics. The significant NIL deal he has secured is not just a financial milestone; it is a signal of his potential to influence the sport and inspire others. With the right blend of talent and marketing savvy, Sellers is poised to leave an indelible mark on both the field and the business of sports.

In this new era, where athletes are increasingly seen as brands, Sellers’ story exemplifies the opportunities that await those who are willing to embrace change and innovate. As he navigates this exciting chapter of his career, the sports world will undoubtedly be watching closely, eager to see how he continues to evolve both as an athlete and a brand ambassador.

Last year, we thought the Chicago Blackhawks were done after selecting Sacha Boisvert 18^th overall. However, they traded two second-round picks to the Carolina Hurricanes to get back in the first round and take Marek Vanacker at 27. History repeated itself on Friday, when they traded picks 34 and 62 in this year’s second round and a fifth-round pick in 2027 to get the 29^th pick from the Hurricanes. They used the pick to select center Mason West out of Edina High School in Minnesota.

West is a dual-sport athlete, playing quarterback for Edina and also starring on the ice. He’s a big 6-foot-6, 207-pound player who doesn’t turn 18 until August. He will be a long-term project, but you can take a swing when you’ve already made two first-round picks.

West will play for the Fargo Force in the USHL after football season next fall, and is committed to Michigan State University for the 2026-27 season. While his size is his most noticeable attribute, scouts are big on his vision and anticipation. He makes plays on both sides of the puck, is strong on the back check, and is never afraid to throw his weight around.

Offensively, he has a strong shot with a quick release, but he is more of a playmaker at this point in his career. West uses his long strides to get his transition game going through the neutral zone quickly. He has good vision, but does need work on his decision-making process. He has plenty of time to develop these skills in the USHL and college over the next couple of seasons.

The Athletic has live coverage of the 2025 NHL Draft.

The first round of the 2025 NHL Draft is here, and, as expected, Matthew Schaefer was selected by the New York Islanders with the first pick.

Follow along here as every pick is announced tonight to see scouting reports of every player and analysis of their selection. The pick grade reflects my thoughts on perceived value gained from the pick relative to the draft slot, plus any secondary variables a team may have had to deal with.

See what scouts really have to say about the best prospects in Corey Pronman’s NHL Draft Confidential and Scott Wheeler’s NHL scouts survey.

1. New York Islanders: Matthew Schaefer, LHD, Erie Otters (OHL)

September 5, 2007 | 6′ 2″ | 185 pounds

Tier: NHL Star

Player comparable: Jake Sanderson

Analysis: Schaefer was tremendous, when healthy, this season. The No. 1 pick in his OHL Draft, Schaefer was arguably the best player at the Hlinka Gretzky and the CHL/U.S. NTDP series. He was also Canada’s best player at the World Juniors up until he broke his clavicle. Schaefer missed time at the start of the season due to mono as well. His main asset is his skating. He’s a powerful, effortless skater who will be able to close gaps and transition up ice at a clear NHL level. He uses his feet to attack often, leading and supporting rushes very well. Schaefer is a very intelligent defenseman with legit offensive skills. He creates a lot of chances due to his skating, but he can also break down opponents one-on-one with his hands, and finds a lot of seams to make plays. He closes on checks at a high level due to his athleticism, but Schaefer is also a great competitor. He uses his size to make stops, gives a great effort every shift and projects to be able to stop top players in the NHL. He’s a great talent, who has already overcome tremendous personal adversity in his life. He projects as a star No. 1 defenseman in the NHL.

Pick grade: A-

Thoughts on the pick: For most teams, this would have been a routine decision to pick Schaefer as the top selection, but there was an unusual amount of pressure on the Islanders to go off the board to select James Hagens, who’s from Long Island. Schaefer is the clear best prospect in the draft. He’s a dynamic two-way defenseman who dominated routinely this season when healthy, and he’s on the fringe of being eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft. He projects as a star No. 1 defenseman for them.

2. San Jose Sharks: Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

February 16, 2007 | 6′ 1″ | 183 pounds

Tier: Bubble NHL Star and top of the lineup player

Player comparable: Tyler Seguin

Analysis: Misa was given exceptional status to play in the OHL as a 15-year-old. He looked very impressive in his first two seasons, but he took off in his draft season, becoming one of the best players in the OHL. He’s a high-end skater with clear NHL edge work and top speed. He’s highly skilled and creative with tremendous vision. His ability to improvise in tight areas and on the move is elite and makes it easy to envision him scoring in major numbers in the NHL. Despite his huge goal-scoring numbers this season, I don’t view him as a sniper. Rather, he generated a lot of goals off timing and getting to the net. Misa won’t run guys over, but he competes well and is diligent without the puck. He projects as a star No. 1 center in the NHL that you can build a winning team around.

Pick grade: A-

Thoughts on the pick: There was no guarantee this was going to be the pick for the Sharks. I think they seriously discussed Misa versus a couple of alternatives. Their GM Mike Grier wants to build a talented team, but one that is highly competitive and hard to play against, and there were players that fit that description better than Misa. While Misa isn’t physical, he’s a competitive two-way forward, and was the most talented, and overall best, player available at 2. Misa, Will Smith, Sam Dickinson and Macklin Celebrini are four foundational building blocks for the Sharks. The Sharks now have options on Misa and Smith on who can be the second-line center of the future, although between the two of them, I would bet it ends up being Misa with Smith flexing to the wing.

3. Chicago Blackhawks: Anton Frondell, C, Djurgårdens IF (HockeyAllsvenskan)

May 7, 2007 | 6′ 1″ | 205 pounds

Tier: Top of the lineup player

Player comparable: Josh Norris

Analysis: Frondell’s season started off slow, in part due to injury, but he was very good versus men in the Allsvenskan in the second half of the season. Frondell has a ton of skill and a real smooth element when he’s around the puck. He makes difficult plays with consistency and can do so on the move. Frondell skates well and competes hard, often outmuscling others bigger than him. Despite his average size, he has a translatable style of play to the NHL that appeals to scouts. Frondell is a good playmaker but he’s also a very dangerous shooter with a bullet shot that projects to beat NHL goalies from range. He’s not a dynamic offensive player, though, and had a few too many quiet games at the international level this season. He has the potential to be a very good all-around top-six center even if he’s often played wing this season.

Pick grade: B-

Thoughts on the pick: I struggled with the Jekyll and Hyde nature of Frondell’s season. If you saw his best games or stretches, he absolutely belonged in this conversation at 3. But I saw too many games where he wasn’t highly effective and wondered about his offensive potential. The No. 3 pick is a tad too high for me with Frondell, but I still like the player a lot, and could see him as a quality second-line center in the NHL who provides a hard element. He has the best shot in the draft, and I could see Chicago line him up opposite Connor Bedard on its two power-play flanks.

4. Utah Mammoth: Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)

April 11, 2007 | 6′ 2″ | 172 pounds

Tier: Bubble NHL Star and top of the lineup player

Player comparable: Nico Hischier

Analysis: Desnoyers was one of the best players in the QMJHL this season as a leader on the top team in the league. He was also the MVP of the QMJHL playoffs. The No. 1 pick in his QMJHL Draft, he checks every box for what you want in an NHL center. He’s tall and fast and makes a lot happen with and without the puck. Desnoyers displays excellent skill and playmaking ability. He creates offense on the move, off the perimeter and at the net. He has great creativity as a playmaker, while also being a detailed two-way player. Desnoyers can be trusted to check top players as he has a physical edge in his game and gives a high effort every game. He has the potential to be a No. 1 center who can play in any situation.

Pick grade: A-

Thoughts on the pick: I’m a big fan of Desnoyers, and he’s a perfect addition to what Utah is building. The Mammoth now have a great young center group for the future with Desnoyers, Logan Cooley and Barrett Hayton. He plays the way their team wants to with his compete level while also providing a lot of offense. Utah is building a foundation that could make noise in the near future.

5. Nashville Predators: Brady Martin, C, Soo Greyhounds (OHL)

March 16, 2007 | 6′ 0″ | 187 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Sam Bennett

Analysis: Martin is a highly likable center who has been impressive in the OHL and for Team Canada this season. He’s a very skilled forward who has the one-on-one abilities to beat a lot of NHL defensemen. He’s creative as a puck handler, and his offensive IQ impressed as the season went along, even if not his calling card. His skill is appealing, but it’s the combination of his skill with his compete that gets evaluators excited. Martin has a true hardness in his game, attacking the high-percentage areas and is an extremely physical player. His skating has progressed into a strength where he can clearly move at an NHL pace. He could be a second-line center who is a matchup player and makes life hellish on opponents.

Pick grade: C+

Thoughts on the pick: I’ve known Martin going in the top five was a possibility for weeks, but I’ve struggled to get around to the idea. He’s a super likable person and player, with great physicality and a very good talent base. I wouldn’t call him a dynamic offensive player, though, and with average size, I just don’t love this profile at 5, especially with players like Porter Martone or James Hagens on the board. The way he plays appeals to Barry Trotz. Time will tell if they left too much talent on the table, or picked their Sam Bennett.

6. Philadelphia Flyers: Porter Martone, RW, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)

October 26, 2006 | 6′ 3″ | 205 pounds

Tier: Bubble NHL Star and top of the lineup player

Player comparable: Filip Forsberg

Analysis: Martone was a top player in the OHL this season; however, he did struggle at the World Juniors for Canada. Martone’s skill level and creativity with the puck are elite, especially for a man his size. His reach and skill will allow him to beat a ton of NHL defenders one-on-one. He makes a lot of difficult plays and does so in traffic. Martone competes well, showing no hesitancy to engage physically or create at the net. Martone’s major issue is the pace in his game. When he turns the corner and gets up ice, his foot speed is decent, but his first few steps are heavy, with a semi-wonky looking stride, and he doesn’t always play with a ton of tempo. The size/skill combo is so good he could overcome that problem, but as one head scout has said, “Martone has the biggest weakness of any of the top five picks.” He projects as a top-line scoring winger in the NHL who could put up a ton of points and play a heavy game.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: The Flyers had a desperate need for a top-two-line center of the future with a high skill level. But Martone was the best player on the board. He’s a big body with a high compete level, and a tremendous skill level. I think he was notably better as a hockey player than the centers available. I respect how the Flyers did this, and they’ll want to try to find a center elsewhere, but it remains to be seen how they do that.

7. Boston Bruins: James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)

November 3, 2006 | 5′ 11″ | 185 pounds

Tier: Top of the lineup player

Player comparable: William Nylander

Analysis: Hagens played well for Boston College this season. His production wasn’t as elite as some would have hoped after a sterling U.S. NTDP career, but he was still an important player on a great team. Hagens was also a go-to player for Team USA as they won gold at the World Juniors. He has a dynamic combination of skating and skill reminiscent of American centers like Logan Cooley and Jack Hughes. Hagens’ edge work is high-end and he’s extremely elusive in open ice. He makes a ton of difficult plays on the move and is a high-end playmaker. Hagens isn’t that big or physical, and can stay on the outside too much, but he gives a decent effort and coaches tend to lean on him. He has the potential to be a play-driving top two line center in the NHL.

Pick grade: A-

Thoughts on the pick: The Bruins had a clear need for high-end talent in their farm system and a pressing need for top center talent. In Hagens, they address both. He’s an electric skater, puck handler and passer. He becomes the clear top young talent in their organization, and despite how he’s been picked apart at times for his size and physicality, he projects as a potential top-line forward.

8. Seattle Kraken: Jake O’Brien, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)

June 16, 2007 | 6′ 2″ | 170 pounds

Tier: Top of the lineup player

Player comparable: Elias Lindholm

Analysis: O’Brien has been an excellent junior player as a leading player on a top OHL team. O’Brien displays the high-end patience and vision to hold onto pucks for an extra second to make difficult plays and run an NHL power play. He’s extremely skilled with the puck, showing the soft touch and quick hands to create a lot of scoring chances and improvise on difficult plays often. He’s a decent enough skater. His game can lack pace at times in part because he pulls up to make his skilled plays too much, but when he gets going, he moves well. O’Brien isn’t overly physical, but he gets to the net to create chances, can kill penalties and isn’t a pushover. He projects as a very good top two line center who could score a lot in the NHL.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: There was some pressure on Seattle to take a defenseman here, given how few the Kraken have selected with a high pick in their young history. But going from O’Brien to players like Radim Mrtka or Jackson Smith would have been a notable decline in talent. They took the clear best player, and arguably the second most purely talented player in the draft, in O’Brien, even if he’s very physically underdeveloped. This was the right decision, and a potential top-six forward of the future for Seattle.

9. Buffalo Sabres: Radim Mrtka, RHD, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)

June 9, 2007 | 6′ 6″ | 218 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Tyler Myers

Analysis: Mrtka’s season started off playing limited minutes in Czechia’s top league so he made the midseason move to the WHL where he ended up playing half the game often for Seattle. Mrtka has the look of an NHL defenseman as there aren’t many 6-foot-6 defenders who can skate and handle the puck well. On his best shifts, Mrtka makes a major impact with how he can make stops and get up into the attack. He has some offense, with good hands and offensive instincts, but I wouldn’t call him a projected power-play type in the NHL as I don’t see a player who thinks the game at a super high level. Mrtka uses his size well enough to make stops. You’d like him to be a bit meaner at times, but he gives a strong effort and will break up a lot of plays due to his natural athleticism. He projects as a second pair defenseman.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: Mrtka is a huge right-shot defenseman with legit mobility and puck-moving skill. He had a strong half-season in the WHL. His physicality isn’t a calling card, but he projects as a top-four defenseman who can contribute value at both ends of the ice. Buffalo also adds some much-needed size to its system full of smaller forwards with a premium pick.

10. Anaheim Ducks: Roger McQueen, F, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

October 2, 2006 | 6′ 5″ | 192 pounds

Tier: Top of the lineup player

Player comparable: Quinton Byfield

Analysis: McQueen got off to a great start to the season before a back injury sidelined him in the fall. He returned for a handful of games toward the end of the year. He’s a 6-foot-5 center who, when healthy, can skate and has high-end offensive skills. His reach and hands can let him break shifts open, especially when he’s attacking with tempo. I wouldn’t call McQueen a truly high-end playmaker, but he sees the ice well, makes difficult plays and can create in the high percentage areas. McQueen is big, but what scouts will love is that he uses his big frame. He has an edge in his play, and even after a near season-long injury, he returned and played with bite. He projects as a potential No. 1 center who can play big minutes in the NHL, presuming his health checks out.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: Anaheim takes a major dice roll on McQueen, who should have gone closer to 5 in terms of pure talent, but his back injury, a stress fracture, scared off a lot of teams. At this point in the draft, I appreciate the risk. Almost all of the premier talents are off the board, the Ducks have a good cupboard of talent, and if McQueen hits, he could be an excellent top two line center, or potentially a first-line winger given the Ducks’ depth at that position. The injury is scary, especially in his lanky frame, but at 10, I respect it.

11. Pittsburgh Penguins: Benjamin Kindel, RW, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)

April 19, 2007 | 5′ 10″ | 181 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Robby Fabbri

Analysis: Kindel was one of the best forwards in the WHL this season. He’s small but checks every other box you want. He’s a very good skater with the first few steps and top speed to play at the higher levels. He’s a skilled, creative offensive player who sees the ice well and has scored in large numbers in junior. He creates well on the move and has a direct style of offense. I wouldn’t describe him as the typical small, dynamic offensive player you would see as a projected NHL player. Rather, I think he could make it because of his talent plus his work ethic. Kindel is a diligent player away from the puck who gives a strong effort at both ends of the ice. He projects as a middle-six winger.

Pick grade: C

Thoughts on the pick: The Penguins deliver the first big surprise of the night, taking the highly skilled, intelligent and competitive Kindel at 11. He was one of the best forwards in the WHL this season, but he’s on the smaller side, and there are mild questions on whether he’s truly special enough of a talent for his frame. Some people do believe in him, but I never heard from even his biggest fans who projected him at this range of the draft, and I never saw that in my viewings either. This seems aggressive on a small winger without elite skating.

12. Philadelphia Flyers: Jack Nesbitt, C, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

January 12, 2007 | 6′ 4″ | 183 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Morgan Geekie

Analysis: Nesbitt trended up significantly this season. He became an important player on a deep Windsor team. Nesbitt is a very skilled center with great size. He can beat players one-on-one at a high rate off the rush and shows a lot of offensive creativity inside the offensive zone. He’s smart and makes a lot of intelligent plays, showing the vision to score in the NHL. He’s a big man who plays heavy and is a reliable 200-foot player. He’s a player that Windsor kept playing more as the season went on and leaned on during important games. His skating stride is heavy, though, and he will struggle to get by NHL defensemen with his foot speed. The hope is that the rest of his game is so good he it won’t be a major issue. He has top-six forward potential and could be a second-line center.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: The Flyers come up to get Nesbitt, adding the talented center they craved in their system. He’s a very skilled center with legit heaviness in his game, although his feet are an issue. I like the player a lot. This is the range I rated him in. I don’t know that I would have traded up to get him, but I respect that they didn’t want to leave Day 1 without a potential top-two line center after taking Martone.

13. Detroit Red Wings: Carter Bear, LW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)

November 4, 2006 | 6′ 0″ | 179 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Troy Terry

Analysis: Bear was a leading player on a top team in the WHL this season before a recent injury knocked him out for the remainder of the year. He’s a very skilled forward with the quick twitch hands and high-end creativity to create offense at the NHL level. He makes a lot of plays through defenders and to his teammates. Bear’s skill stands out, but the way he creates offense should likely translate to higher levels. He gets to the net to generate chances, plays fast and is a good enough skater. He’s also a highly physical winger who creates a lot of chances in traffic. He projects as a top-six winger who coaches will feel comfortable using in any situation.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: The Red Wings have a type of player they like, and they continue to take that profile in Bear. He’s very skilled and skates well, but has a high motor and can play at both ends of the ice. He projects as a top-six winger in the NHL.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets: Jackson Smith, LHD, Tri-City Americans (WHL)

May 13, 2007 | 6′ 3″ | 190 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Brian Dumoulin

Analysis: Smith has generated a lot of NHL interest due to his combination of tools and production. He’s a 6-foot-3 defenseman who skates quite well. He’s funky-looking at times, going 10-2 with his edges a bit too much, but he’s a powerful, fluid skater who can easily get by checkers and skate pucks up ice. Smith often tries to attack with his skill and can break down players one-on-one easily. Smith’s decision-making isn’t the best at times, and I wouldn’t call him a natural playmaker, but he creates a lot of offense and has a good point shot. Defensively, he’s decent due to his frame and feet, and when he’s leaning into checks, he can be a two-way force. His defensive play is inconsistent, in part because he’s often up in the attack, but he has the potential to be a top-four defenseman who can play on both special teams.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: In Smith, Columbus gets a defenseman with size, mobility and legit offense. He projects as a top-four defenseman and helps the Blue Jackets at the position they need the most depth at in their system. He is the second-most purely talented defenseman in the draft after Schaefer.

15. Vancouver Canucks: Braeden Cootes, C, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)

February 9, 2007 | 6′ 0″ | 183 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: J.T. Compher

Analysis: Cootes hasn’t scored at high levels, but he’s played on a thin Seattle team and was an important player often for Canada’s U18 team. He’s a likable all-around forward. He’s a good, if not very good skater who plays with a lot of pace. He has strong offensive skills, playmaking and finishing abilities. He creates offense at fast tempos and in a direct manner. He’s not that big, but he plays big, showing a high compete level and not backing down from physical play. There will be some minor debates on how much offense Cootes will have in the NHL, but early indicators are it could be just good enough to be a top two line center who provides two-way value.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: Cootes is a highly likable two-way center who competes hard and has more offense in his game than his numbers suggest. He provides talent at a position of need for Vancouver and could be a legit second- or third-line center for the Canucks in the future who plays in a variety of situations.

16. New York Islanders: Victor Eklund, LW, Djurgårdens IF (HockeyAllsvenskan)

October 3, 2006 | 5′ 11″ | 170 pounds

Tier: Top of the lineup player

Player comparable: Travis Konecny

Analysis: Eklund, the younger brother of Sharks winger William Eklund, was excellent this season versus men in the Allsvenskan as well as for Sweden’s World Junior team. Victor is an excellent skater. He has good speed, but his edge work is what separates his skating ability and how elusive he is in tight. He’s a very skilled forward who makes creative plays and can do so in the tough areas. Eklund is undersized, but he plays like a big man. He’s a tenacious competitor who hunts down pucks and is great at creating chances around the net. He projects as a top-line winger.

Pick grade: A

Thoughts on the pick: Eklund’s fall stops here. Teams were worried about his frame, but he’s such a good skater, with great skill and tenacity and has some similarities to Seth Jarvis at the same age. This is a great swing by the Islanders.

17. New York Islanders: Kashawn Aitcheson, LHD, Barrie Colts (OHL)

September 21, 2006 | 6′ 1″ | 198 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Jacob Trouba

Analysis: Aitcheson was one of the better defensemen in the OHL this season. He has been a major minutes player for Barrie as he was for Canada’s U18 team last spring. He’s a hyper-competitive defender who doesn’t back down from physical play and likes to agitate. He has the bite NHL teams will love, even if he does go over the line at times. He’s a good skater with strong enough hands and hockey sense to make plays at higher levels and a solid point shot, too. Aitcheson won’t run a power play, lacking the natural sense at times with the puck, but he projects to have secondary NHL offense and has put up significant offense this year. Even if his puck play is just decent, with his athletic tools and being a menace to play against, he can be a great top-four defenseman.

Pick grade: A-

Thoughts on the pick: Two picks in a row for the Islanders, and I’m a big fan of both. He’s a tenacious, highly physical defenseman with decent size and has offense in his game. He’s a unique profile, and getting a potential top-four D with snarl at 17 is great.

18. Calgary Flames: Cole Reschny, C, Victoria Royals (WHL)

April 6, 2007 | 5′ 10″ | 187 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Connor McMichael

Analysis: Reschny has been a great WHL player, scoring a lot over his two seasons, including a standout playoff performance this spring for Victoria and a great U18 Worlds for Canada. He’s a highly skilled and intelligent player who can run a power play like a pro and makes a ton of creative stick handles and passes. He’s a quick skater with good edges who plays with pace and makes high-end plays on the move. He’s not the most dynamic skater for a guy his size, but he will be able to move at an NHL level. He’s on the smaller side, but Reschny can create at the net and kill penalties. He’s played center in junior, showing a diligent two-way game. There’s a chance, due to his size, that he’ll need to be moved to the wing as a pro. He has the traits to be a top-six forward.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: Reschny was the best player available at 18, with a high skill level and great hockey IQ. He was as good as anyone in the CHL in the second half. He’s not the biggest or fastest, but he competes hard enough that he could stay in the middle and be a potential second-line center.

19. St. Louis Blues: Justin Carbonneau, RW, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)

November 25, 2006 | 6′ 1″ | 192 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Dylan Holloway

Analysis: Carbonneau has been a top player in the QMJHL. He’s a very strong skater and puck handler who can beat defenders one-on-one at full flight. He’s a physically developed winger who plays hard and can win puck battles fairly often. His style of play is highly translatable to the NHL game with the pace and effort in his shifts. He has a great shot and is often a threat to score from the faceoff dots with his one-timer. The one issue with Carbonneau is his decision-making at times is questionable, and I wouldn’t call him a natural playmaker. He projects as a top-six winger.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: Carbonneau is a highly skilled, hard-to-play against winger who projects as a top-six forward. He’s the last skater remaining of my top group of players, as the draft drops off a bit at this point, and the Blues get a valuable piece for the future.

20. Columbus Blue Jackets: Pyotr Andreyanov, G, Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL)

January 22, 2007 | 6′ 2″ | 207 pounds

Tier: Has a chance to play games

Analysis: Andreyanov has outstanding quickness in his lower half. He makes a ton of highlight reel-type saves due to his athleticism, plus his compete level. He never seems like he’s out of a play due to his effort. Andreyanov is also a good technical goalie who can make smooth, efficient saves with good reads. NHL teams’ only concern with him will be his size. He’s a very small goalie by NHL standards, and will need to prove he’s just not very talented, but especially talented to be an NHL goalie. I’ve seen enough flashes of special to think he has a chance to make it.

Pick grade: C

Thoughts on the pick: Andreyanov was great in Russia this season as the leader of their national team and posting great numbers. He has legit NHL athleticism and hockey sense, but he is also a 6-foot-0 goalie, and there are some concerns about how his game will translate to the NHL at that frame. Columbus doesn’t shy away from small goalies, though, taking Evan Gardner last season. But this is high for me based on what I saw of Andreyanov. He’s a talented goalie, but I didn’t see a Juuse Saros level of athletic talent.

21. Nashville Predators: Cameron Reid, LHD, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

April 8, 2007 | 6′ 0″ | 174 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Jamie Drysdale

Analysis: Reid was a big-minute defenseman for Kitchener and also played top-four minutes for Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky. He’s a likable player in a lot of regards. He’s a dynamic, powerful skater. He closes on pucks quickly and can get the play going up the ice due to his feet. He’s average-sized but competes well and is a physical player. He makes efforts defensively and coaches trust him. Reid has strong enough puck skills and vision. He can create offense off the rush and from the offensive blue line, with flashes of high-end skill, although I don’t see him as a true NHL power-play type. Despite his average size, Reid projects to make NHL stops due to how good a skater he is. He projects as a second-pair defenseman.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: Nashville gets the best defenseman remaining on the board in Reid. He’s a great skater who moves the puck well and competes hard. He has a ton of similarities to Tanner Molendyk, whom they drafted in a similar spot two years ago.

22. Pittsburgh Penguins: Bill Zonnon, LW, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

October 3, 2006 | 6′ 2″ | 190 pounds

Tier: Projected to play NHL games

Analysis: Zonnon has been a top player for Rouyn-Noranda for the past two seasons. Zonnon checks a lot of boxes NHL teams will be looking for. He’s a big, fast center with a skating stride that will easily translate to the NHL. He has good stick skills and can create offense on the move. He’s been a big scorer in the QMJHL, but I wouldn’t call him an overly instinctive offensive type. He can make some plays, and has a decent shot too, but it looks like more secondary skill at the top level. He works well enough off the puck and could have two-way value as a pro. He could be a bottom-six forward at wing or center.

Pick grade: C+

Thoughts on the pick: Zonnon had a great season in the Q as a top player for Rouyn-Noranda. He’s a good skater with legit skill and two-way ability. He’s not the most dynamic player in the world, but there’s a path for him to become a third-line forward in the NHL.

23. Ottawa Senators: Logan Hensler, RHD, Univ. of Wisconsin (NCAA)

October 14, 2006 | 6′ 2″ | 196 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Damon Severson

Analysis: Hensler didn’t have a huge draft season, but he was still a top-four defenseman for Wisconsin and held his own at the World Juniors for Team USA. He’s a 6-foot-2, mobile right-shot with strong offensive skills and playmaking ability. At his best, his offensive touch can stand out, and I’ve seen him break games open. That player has shown up inconsistently, though, over the years. His defending is OK. His length and feet will allow him to make stops and retrieve effectively in the NHL, but he’s not a super-hard-to-play-against type. Hensler doesn’t stand out at any one thing, but he does enough well that he should be a solid NHL defenseman.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: Hensler’s stock went down notably this year after his season at Wisconsin, but he’s still a big, mobile blueliner who has legit skill and vision. He will need to play harder, but this is a swing on talent that I know Sens fans have wanted the team’s scouting staff to take.

24. Pittsburgh Penguins: William Horcoff, C, U.S. National U18 Team (NTDP)

January 23, 2007 | 6′ 4″ | 181 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Joel Armia

Analysis: Horcoff, the son of former NHLer Shawn Horcoff, was doing just OK to start the year at the U.S. NTDP. He left midseason to join Michigan where his game took off from that point, making a real difference for his team at the college level as a U18 player. He’s a very skilled big man who can make small-man-type plays in tight areas. He sees the ice at a high level and has a creative offensive mind. Horcoff is also good enough in the hard areas and can play the body when he needs to. The issues in his game at the top level will all come down to pace. I’ve seen slower 6-foot-5 guys, but his first few steps are going to be a struggle in the NHL. The rest of his game is good enough, though, that I see a projected middle-six winger.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: Horcoff had a great second half at Michigan, looking like he belonged in a top conference as a U18 player. He’s a huge and highly skilled playmaking forward with heavy feet. I like him at this spot, and think he can be a middle-six forward in the NHL.

25. Chicago Blackhawks: Vaclav Nestrasil, RW, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)

April 6, 2007 | 6′ 6″ | 185 pounds

Tier: Projected to play NHL games

Analysis: Nestrasil kept getting better as the season went along. becoming a top player for the eventual USHL champion in Muskegon. His tools and projection for the pro game are highly intriguing. He’s a huge winger who can move quite well for a big man and has some offense in his game. When Nestrasil gets going, he has the foot speed of an NHL player and can create a lot of controlled entries. His first few steps are just OK, though. I’d like to see him use his big body more to get to the net, but Nestrasil has the skill to create in small areas. He competes well, can kill penalties, and will be a player that coaches tend to trust. He projects as a bottom-six winger in the NHL.

Pick grade: C+

Thoughts on the pick: Nestrasil’s stock shot up following his second half and playoffs for Muskegon. He’s a huge winger who can skate, has skill and works hard. He’s not the most creative player with the puck, but his athletic toolkit and potential are high-end. He projects as a unique profile in a bottom six.

26. Nashville Predators: Ryker Lee, F, Madison Capitols (USHL)

November 8, 2006 | 6′ 0″ | 181 pounds

Tier: Projected to play NHL games

Analysis: Lee was one of the top forwards in the USHL this season. His talent stands out when he has the puck on his stick. He shows high-end small-area skills, and ability to beat opponents one-on-one. He is a creative playmaker who can find lanes and run a power play well. Lee has a great wrist shot, and has the ability to beat goalies from the faceoff dots. His compete level is OK. He shows up consistently, but he’s not overly physical and like a lot of shooters he stays too much on the outside. His skating is also a concern for scouts. He gets around fine in the USHL, but he lacks the quick twitch you’d like in an NHL wing,er especially given his average-sized frame. His talent could get his games, but his lack of pace will likely test a coach’s patience.

Pick grade: C+

Thoughts on the pick: Lee was one of the best players in the USHL this season, dazzling scouts with his skill, vision and shot. He’s average-sized, though, with subpar skating. This is a swing on skill by Nashville, as there’s significant risk this profile doesn’t translate up levels. He has some big fans in the league, but I do have some skepticism about his skating in the NHL. In some ways, he reminds me of Preds forward Luke Evangelista.

27. Washington Capitals: Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

December 12, 2006 | 6′ 4″ | 190 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Anthony Mantha

Analysis: Lakovic was the best player on a poor Moose Jaw team, but his body of work plus his athleticism is impressive. He’s a 6-foot-4 winger who skates quite well for his size. He has a powerful and fluid stride and can easily avoid checkers. He’s a creative offensive player with the hands to make defenders miss often. Lakovic sees the ice well enough but scouts aren’t fully convinced on that aspect of his game. He’s more of a scorer than a passer with a legit mid-range shot. His compete level is mediocre. It won’t hold him back at the top level, but I wouldn’t call him a hard-to-play-against type who makes full use of his big frame and he plays too much on the outside. He projects as a top-six winger.

Pick grade: B

Thoughts on the pick: Lakovic is a very talented forward. He’s big, fast, skilled and can rip a puck. He got carved by the league this season for his consistency and compete level, though, and predictably falls in the draft. I would’ve had issues taking him top 15. At 27, it’s a worthwhile gamble on the tools for Washington.

28. Winnipeg Jets: Sascha Boumedienne, LHD, Boston Univ. (NCAA)

January 17, 2007 | 6′ 2″ | 183 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Mike Matheson

Analysis: Boumedienne went to school as a 17-year-old and it was a major adjustment as the youngest player in the NCAA, but he was better in the second half of the season as a top-four defenseman on a top BU team. He was also one of the best defensemen at the U18 Worlds. His skating gets you excited about his NHL projection. He has NHL foot speed and edge work, and his stride gets him around the ice effortlessly. He closes on gaps and retrieves pucks like a pro. His puck game is good, but not amazing. He makes plays and has above-average skills, but he doesn’t project as a major offensive type at the higher levels and his decision-making with the puck can be questionable at times. The hope with Boumedienne is that with his skating he can be a steady first-pass type who can make stops and eat minutes, even if he doesn’t truly stand out at either end.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: Boumedienne is a great skating defenseman who had his ups and downs this season, but the ups were very impressive. He has a lot of NHL traits, and although he can be a bit erratic, I like the value on his skill set and track record at 28.

29. Chicago Blackhawks: Mason West, F, Edina High (USHS-MN)

August 3, 2007 | 6′ 6″ | 218 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Michael Rasmussen

Analysis: West is a very interesting prospect. He’s huge at 6-foot-6 and quite athletic in how easily he gets around the ice. That athleticism is also why he is being recruited as a D-1 football player. He’s a better hockey prospect than football prospect, but he’s been indecisive in discussions with teams about which sport he prefers. On the ice, you see the talent. The speed and skill for his size are very unique. He creates a lot of controlled entries due to that combination. West’s compete is average, though, as well as his playmaking. Chicago is banking on him not being fully developed yet, and ideally him picking hockey full-time. He started off the season slow, but was very good in the big games in Minnesota High School and in the USHL this spring. He has middle-six forward potential if the offense clicks at higher levels.

Pick grade: B-

Thoughts on the pick: West was one of the most polarizing players in this year’s draft. He’s a first-round hockey talent, with legit size, speed and skill. He is a legit dual-sport athlete, though, who is committed to playing football in the fall of 2025 before going to the USHL. This is a massive gamble given those obvious risks. I don’t mind the pick at 29, I probably wouldn’t have traded up for him, though.

30. San Jose Sharks: Joshua Ravensbergen, G, Prince George Cougars (WHL)

November 27, 2006 | 6′ 5″ | 192 pounds

Tier: Bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Jacob Markstrom

Analysis: Ravensbergen was up and down this season after a standout rookie year in the WHL. His numbers are average, but his toolkit is going to be highly desirable to NHL teams, and he was still one of the better goalies in the WHL. He’s 6-foot-5. He’s very athletic with the quick-twitch in his lower half of a 6-foot-1 goaltender. He anticipates the play well and is quite aggressive in challenging shooters with his big frame. He can be a bit over-aggressive and chaotic in net, bouncing/flopping around too much. His reads do concern me at times, but for the most part, he’s in the right place. He can make a lot of tough saves and does so in a way that makes him look like a potential starting goaltender in the NHL.

Pick grade: A-

Thoughts on the pick: In a somewhat surprising move, after acquiring Yaroslav Askarov last season, the Sharks take my top-rated goalie in Ravensbergen. I had him rated notably higher than this, and the Sharks must have felt somewhat similar to use a major asset again on a young goalie. I see a 6-5 netminder with great quickness and sense. He was inconsistent this season, but I thought he was still one of the best goalies in the CHL. I like this move a lot for them.

31. Los Angeles Kings: Henry Brzustewicz, RHD, London Knights (OHL)

February 9, 2007 | 6′ 1″ | 194 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Zach Whitecloud

Analysis: Brzustewicz played a notable role on a strong London team this season, appearing at times on both special teams. He’s a tall right-shot who skates well and doesn’t shy from using his feet to jump up into the attack. He’s a skilled and creative player with the puck. Brzustewicz can make plays through opponents, hit seams in the offensive zone and can create offense on the move. Defensively he’s reliable, using his length and feet to close on pucks and getting back to retrieve efficiently while also having an edge in his game. He’s been a sharp riser this season, a story we’ve heard often with London players developing well. I could see more offense coming from him with more opportunity.

Pick grade: B+

Thoughts on the pick: Brzustewicz kept improving as the season went along. He’s a tall, mobile right-shot who can make a steady first pass and plays with an edge. He’s not the sexiest pick, but he checks a lot of boxes for the NHL, and at 31, you will take that. Being able to trade back and get more assets is solid work by the Kings, too.

32. Calgary Flames: Cullen Potter, LW, Arizona State Univ. (NCAA)

January 10, 2007 | 5′ 10″ | 172 pounds

Tier: Middle of the lineup player

Player comparable: Anthony Duclair

Analysis: Potter left the U.S. NTDP following his U17 season, changing his commitment from Michigan State to Arizona State and beginning his college career early. It was a risky decision, but the early dividends have been positive. He looked very good for Arizona State and helped them in a meaningful way as a 17-year-old. Potter’s skating is elite. His edge work plus foot speed are both clearly NHL-level. He will be able to generate a lot of controlled entries in the NHL due to his feet and a very high skill level. Potter is more of a one-on-one and shooter type of forward than a playmaker even though he can make plays. For a smaller forward, I would like to see Potter not stay on the perimeter as much as he does, but he has enough interior offense that I think he can score in the NHL as a middle-six winger.

Pick grade: B-

Thoughts on the pick: Potter is dynamic in terms of his skating and skill combination. He slid on draft day, though, due to concerns about his frame, physicality and playmaking at times. At this point in the draft, I don’t have issues with the pick. Calgary does walk away, though, with two undersized forwards as its take from today, even if both of them are very talented.

(Photo of Michael Misa, Matthew Schaefer and Anton Frondell: Adam Pantozzi / NHLI via Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES – One current National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) player and one incoming freshman heard their names called Friday night at the Peacock Theater, as Arizona State rising sophomore forward Cullen Potter and North Dakota incoming freshman forward Cole Reschny were selected in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft. The two could be future teammates, as both were drafted by the Calgary Flames.
 
Reschny was taken 18th overall by the Flames. The Macklin, Saskatchewan native has spent the last two seasons playing for the Victoria Royals in the Western Hockey League (WHL). Reschny served as an assistant captain for the Royals this past season, leading the team with a franchise-record 66 assists and 92 points in 62 regular-season games, while scoring 26 goals, which was second on the Royals. The left-shot center added a team-best 25 points (9g/16a) in 11 playoff games.
 
Reschny also represented Canada at the 2025 IIHF U-18 World Championship in late April and early May, helping Team Canada win gold with eight points (5g/3a) in five games. He was named one of the top three players for Canada at the tournament. In his first year with Victoria in 2023-24, Reschny racked up 59 points in 61 games.
 
Potter was drafted by the Flames with the 32nd and final pick in the first round, becoming the highest NHL draft pick in Arizona State history. Starting the 2024-25 season as a 17-year-old, the Minneapolis, Minn. native earned NCHC All-Rookie Team honors after compiling 15 points (9g/6a) in 22 conference games, with his nine goals third among freshmen. Overall, Potter finished his freshman year with 22 points in 35 games for the Sun Devils, including 13 goals, which was second among NCHC rookies. His 81 shots on goal led rookies in NCHC action, while he helped ASU finish in second place in its inaugural NCHC season.
 
Potter, who turned 18 in January, captured a bronze medal with Team USA at the 2025 IIHF U-18 World Championship in May. The speedy winger potted four goals and added four assists while representing the U.S. in seven games in Texas. Similar to Reschny, Potter was named one of Team USA’s top three players at the tournament.
 
The NCHC has now had 16 current or incoming players selected in the first round of the NHL Draft since the conference began play in 2013-14.
 
The 2025 NHL Draft concludes Saturday with rounds 2-7. Day two of the NHL Draft begins at noon ET/9 a.m. PT and will be televised on NHL Network and streamed on ESPN+ in the United States, as well as televised on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada.
 
NCHC PLAYERS SELECTED IN 2025 NHL DRAFT
Rd.         Pick         Player                    NCHC Team        Pos.        NHL Team
1              18           Cole Reschny        North Dakota        F              Calgary
1              32           Cullen Potter          Arizona State       F              Calgary
 
ALL-TIME NCHC PLAYERS SELECTED IN FIRST ROUND OF NHL DRAFT
Year       Pick         Player                                 NHL Team            NCHC Team
2014       20           Nick Schmaltz                      Chicago                North Dakota
2015       23           Brock Boeser                       Vancouver            North Dakota
2015       25           Jack Roslovic                       Winnipeg              Miami
2016       10           Tyson Jost                            Colorado              North Dakota
2016       20           Dennis Cholowski                Detroit                   St. Cloud State
2016       23           Henrik Borgstrom                 Florida                  Denver
2016       25           Riley Tufte                            Dallas                   Minnesota Duluth
2017       25           Ryan Poehling                     Montreal               St. Cloud State
2018       26           Jacob Bernard-Docker         Ottawa                  North Dakota
2020       5             Jake Sanderson                   Ottawa                  North Dakota
2022       31           Isaac Howard                      Tampa Bay            Minnesota Duluth
2024       12           Zeev Buium                          Minnesota             Denver
2024       18           Sacha Boisvert                    Chicago                 North Dakota
2024       30           EJ Emery                             N.Y. Rangers         North Dakota
2025       18           Cole Reschny                      Calgary                  North Dakota
2025       32           Cullen Potter                       Calgary                  Arizona State
 

–#NCHChockey–

The Bruins added a major talent to their prospect pipeline on Friday night when Boston College’s James Hagens, ranked the No. 1 talent in the world before this season, fell to the Bruins at No. 7 and they selected the Long Island native, immediately making him the club’s top prospect.

“I love Boston, I love the area,” Hagens told ESPN.

Hagens seemed every bit as tickled that his name was called by actor Adam Sandler, aka Happy Gilmore.

“I’ll remember that forever,” beamed a smiling Hagens, who said Happy Gilmore was his favorite movie.

There was one uncomfortable moment when the Bruins’ brass on Causeway Street, trying to interface with Hagens at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles via Zoom, could not hear the player and the broadcast had to move on.

Hopefully for the B’s and Hagens’ sake, that will be the only glitch in his development.

Hagens, listed at 5-11 and 177 pounds (he said he’s packed on 13 pounds since those measurements were taken), had a very good year at BC but he didn’t have the same kind of sensational season that last year’s No. 1 pick, Macklin Celebrini, had at Boston University. But playing between Ryan Leonard and Gabriel Perrault, Hagens had 11-26-37 totals in 37 games, which is not bad for a college freshman. Playing with those two future NHLers, he had little choice but to be a set-up man.

Before arriving at BC, Hagens had 39 goals and 63 assists for the U.S. National U18 team in 2023-24. He was also part of the 2025 Team USA that won the World Junior Championships, ranking second among US players with nine points. He was named MVP of the USA’s 2024 silver medal winning team in the U18 World Junior Championships, notching 22 points in seven games.

When it was pointed out that Hagens didn’t have quite the level of production that was expected, B’s GM Don Sweeney took exception.

“I think that’s a little unfair in terms of players going in as freshmen,” said Sweeney. “If you look back at James’ track record, he’s been a prolific point producer…against his peer group he’s been at the upper echelon of production. There have been a few players, and you’re right, who have gone into college hockey at that age and done better overall, but there’s no shame in the type of year that he had, playing on the top line on one of the top teams’ in the country. There’s no concern on our part in terms of him taking a step back.”

Hagens’ strongest asset is his skating ability with which he’s adept at making tight turns and changes of direction. He’s also got excellent vision and is good at anticipating plays. While the loaded Eagles fell short of their goal of a national championship this year, Hagens scored his biggest goal of the season in the NCAA regionals when BC was locked in a 0-0 game late in the third period against upstart Bentley. The young centerman saved the Eagles’ bacon by scoring the only goal of the game on a heads-up wraparound.

One other thing that should work in the B’s favor with the pick is that Hagens should have a healthy chip on his shoulder after falling in the draft.

“I think next year, we’ll hopefully see. I thought this year was really good,” said Hagens via Zoom. “I just have to go out there next year and prove everyone that passed on me wrong. I’m in the spot where I want to be. I want to be a Boston Bruin.”

But Hagens is not known for a powerful shot and, a tad undersized, he will be challenged to get to inside ice.

Hagens will be at Bruins Development Camp on Monday at Warrior Ice Arena, where the Eagles often practice. He said its his goal to be in the NHL as soon as possible, but whether or not he returns to BC is to be determined.

“That’s a talk I’m sure I’ll have with the staff when I see them,” said Hagens, who grew up playing many tournaments in Boston as a kid. “I’m up to 190 now. I’ve been able to put on some weight, get in the gym and get ready. I want to play in the NHL as soon as possible. That’s a conversation with the team, whether it’s now or once the college season is over. That’s a conversation we’ll have to have.”

Sweeney said that that decision will be made incrementally over the summer but he did say that he does not want to rush him. On top of that, Sweeney pointed out that at BC next season there will be opportunities for Hagens to take a more play-driving role after and develop more of a shot mentality now that some of the older players have left the program.

There was some speculation earlier in the day that, after the Islanders had traded Noah Dobson to Montreal for the 16th and 17th picks, that they may make a run at the No. 7 pick with those two picks so that could could add their hometown boy Hagens to a first-round haul that include first overall pick Matthew Schaefer.

Hagens was unfazed by the talk.

“I stayed away from all that stuff. I had no idea where I was going to end up. I’m so grateful that I ended up in Boston and that I’m a Bruin and I’m not leaving the Boston area. I wanted to go to college in Boston and it just turned out that the Bruins picked me. I’m super grateful that it worked out,” said Hagens.

While neither GM got into specifics about who their potential dance partners might have been, Islanders GM Mathieu Darche said he tried to trade the two picks to move up to get Hagens and Sweeney said he did have discussions about moving back.

“We had some opportunities but we just felt when James was there, we had to make the selection,” said Sweeney.

The Islanders made both those picks and they made out pretty darn well, taking right wing Victor Eklund, whom a few prognosticators had moved into the top 10, and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson, who had also been rising in recent weeks.

The B’s certainly saw plenty of Hagens last season. Not only was he playing in their backyard at Chestnut Hill, but he was also a teammate of Dean Letourneau, the B’s first-round selection (25th overall) last season. Eagles Oskar Jellvik and Andre Gasseau are also Bruin picks.

Hagens is the 27th first-round pick in BC history.

The draft continues on Saturday when the B’s have two second round picks (51, 61). Sweeney said he’s had discussions about moving picks to obtain a player and will continue those talks on Saturday.

Originally Published: June 27, 2025 at 8:18 PM EDT