After the first two picks, is the 2025 draft one of the most unpredictable drafts in recent years?

[rocketdan9]

For the 2024 draft, Beckett Sennecke at #3 was considered a huge reach at the time. Today, the Ducks GM’s teeth are sparkling. It’s not a shoo-in just yet, but Sennecke looks like a worthy #3 pick. For the most part, I believe the rest of the 1st and 2nd round picks were pretty predictable.

For the 2025 NHL draft, it seems like there is no consensus from #3 to the end of the 2nd round. Desnoyers, Hagens, Martone, Frondell, etc., have each been projected to go third. There are also players projected as 2nd-round picks in some people’s minds—like Gastrin or Vansaghi—who others have in the teens.

Could team needs take precedence over best player available? Is the talent gap much narrower these days, or is it specifically narrower for the 2025 draft?

 

[VIPettersson]

For the 2024 draft - Beckett Sennecke at 3 was considered a huge reach at the time. Today, the Ducks GM teeth is sparkling. Its not a shoe in just yet, but Sennecke looks like a worthy #3 pick. For the most part, I believe the rest of the 1st/2nd round picks were pretty predictable.

For the 2025 NHL draft. It seems like there is no consensus from 3 to end of the 2nd round. Desnoyers, Hagens, Martone, Frondell etc. Have each been projected to go 3rd. There are projected 2nd round picks in some peoples mind... like Gastrin or Vansaghi ...also placed to be taken in the teens by others.

Could teams needs take presidence over BPA? Is the talent gap much narrower these days or specifically narrower for the 2025 draft?

imo because this draft is considered weaker I think reaching for preference is likely. Surprise picks that really go against consensus draft guides/media.