NHL 2025 Draft

[hockeywiz542]

Maple Leafs 2025 Draft Plan Includes Big Defensemen - The Hockey Writers Toronto Maple Leafs Latest News, Analysis & More

With the interviews the Maple Leafs had with prospects during NHL Combine week, it seems like they could be looking for size on the back end.

thehockeywriters.com

Like their approach at the deadline, the Maple Leafs have also added size in recent drafts, including 2024 when they took defenceman Ben Danford 31st overall. Danford, a six-foot-two and 191-pound defenceman, finished 2024-25 with five goals and 25 points in 61 games for the Oshawa Generals. But it was his physical play that continued to drive his favourable status amongst Leafs Nation this season.

So, that in mind, what could the Maple Leafs’ attack plan be at the 2025 NHL Draft? Based on interviews, their focus still looks to be adding size on the back end.

Maple Leafs Interviewing Defensive Candidates

At the 2025 NHL Combine in Buffalo, I noticed a trend as we discussed interviews with some of the prospects. Some of the top-tiered defensive prospects didn’t hear from the Maple Leafs, but those projecting as second-round picks — for the most part — had spoken with the Maple Leafs during the week leading up to the physical testing on Saturday. Some even mentioned earlier meetings with the team throughout the season.

Of those second-round options, each of them had some things in common — they were defensemen, with larger stature, who could win puck battles, skate well and push the meter on the physical play. Bigger. Tougher. And sure, they can add something offensively when the opportunities present themselves.

Is this a tell as to how the Maple Leafs are going to approach the draft? It certainly seems like it could be. If that’s the case, here are a few of the options that the Maple Leafs could land with their late second-round pick.

Brady Peddle, Waterloo Black Hawks (USHL)

Jackson Smith, Tri-City Americans (WHL)

Carter Amico, USA U18 (NTDP)

Max Pšenička, Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Sasha Boumedienne, Boston University (NCAA)

 

[ULF_55]

How about Matthews to Anaheim for their draft picks?

 

[darrylsittler27]

Could we trade Laughton for a 1st?

Half serious

Not a chance. He is worth a 3rd.

 

[Menzinger]

How about Matthews to Anaheim for their draft picks?

Maybe in the summer of 2027. Though I'd want something more tangible than just picks. 1st + young top 9C/top 4 D + blue chip prospect

 

[LaPlante94]

Maple Leafs 2025 Draft Plan Includes Big Defensemen - The Hockey Writers Toronto Maple Leafs Latest News, Analysis & More

With the interviews the Maple Leafs had with prospects during NHL Combine week, it seems like they could be looking for size on the back end.

thehockeywriters.com

Like their approach at the deadline, the Maple Leafs have also added size in recent drafts, including 2024 when they took defenceman Ben Danford 31st overall. Danford, a six-foot-two and 191-pound defenceman, finished 2024-25 with five goals and 25 points in 61 games for the Oshawa Generals. But it was his physical play that continued to drive his favourable status amongst Leafs Nation this season.

So, that in mind, what could the Maple Leafs’ attack plan be at the 2025 NHL Draft? Based on interviews, their focus still looks to be adding size on the back end.

Maple Leafs Interviewing Defensive Candidates

At the 2025 NHL Combine in Buffalo, I noticed a trend as we discussed interviews with some of the prospects. Some of the top-tiered defensive prospects didn’t hear from the Maple Leafs, but those projecting as second-round picks — for the most part — had spoken with the Maple Leafs during the week leading up to the physical testing on Saturday. Some even mentioned earlier meetings with the team throughout the season.

Of those second-round options, each of them had some things in common — they were defensemen, with larger stature, who could win puck battles, skate well and push the meter on the physical play. Bigger. Tougher. And sure, they can add something offensively when the opportunities present themselves.

Is this a tell as to how the Maple Leafs are going to approach the draft? It certainly seems like it could be. If that’s the case, here are a few of the options that the Maple Leafs could land with their late second-round pick.

Brady Peddle, Waterloo Black Hawks (USHL)

Jackson Smith, Tri-City Americans (WHL)

Carter Amico, USA U18 (NTDP)

Max Pšenička, Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Sasha Boumedienne, Boston University (NCAA)

Surprised Bedkowski isn't on this list since he's projected anywhere between the late 2nd to anywhere in the 3rd round. Don't know too many players ranked outside the 1st but the 3 I do know a little about either from the OHL or U-18 and Hlinka would be Ekberg, Czata and Bedkowski. Ekberg and Czata ranked near our 2nd round pick and Bedkowski possibly around our 3rd round pick.

 

[ULF_55]

Draft discussion.

 

[LaPlante94]

Guy was a projected top 10-15 pick at one point I believe. If we really want to take a swing for the fences this could be our chance if he drops to our pick. The definition of a high risk high reward type of pick.

 

[thewave]

Maple Leafs 2025 Draft Plan Includes Big Defensemen - The Hockey Writers Toronto Maple Leafs Latest News, Analysis & More

With the interviews the Maple Leafs had with prospects during NHL Combine week, it seems like they could be looking for size on the back end.

thehockeywriters.com

Like their approach at the deadline, the Maple Leafs have also added size in recent drafts, including 2024 when they took defenceman Ben Danford 31st overall. Danford, a six-foot-two and 191-pound defenceman, finished 2024-25 with five goals and 25 points in 61 games for the Oshawa Generals. But it was his physical play that continued to drive his favourable status amongst Leafs Nation this season.

So, that in mind, what could the Maple Leafs’ attack plan be at the 2025 NHL Draft? Based on interviews, their focus still looks to be adding size on the back end.

Maple Leafs Interviewing Defensive Candidates

At the 2025 NHL Combine in Buffalo, I noticed a trend as we discussed interviews with some of the prospects. Some of the top-tiered defensive prospects didn’t hear from the Maple Leafs, but those projecting as second-round picks — for the most part — had spoken with the Maple Leafs during the week leading up to the physical testing on Saturday. Some even mentioned earlier meetings with the team throughout the season.

Of those second-round options, each of them had some things in common — they were defensemen, with larger stature, who could win puck battles, skate well and push the meter on the physical play. Bigger. Tougher. And sure, they can add something offensively when the opportunities present themselves.

Is this a tell as to how the Maple Leafs are going to approach the draft? It certainly seems like it could be. If that’s the case, here are a few of the options that the Maple Leafs could land with their late second-round pick.

Brady Peddle, Waterloo Black Hawks (USHL)

Jackson Smith, Tri-City Americans (WHL)

Carter Amico, USA U18 (NTDP)

Max Pšenička, Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Sasha Boumedienne, Boston University (NCAA)

Drafting hockey players for dummies states "The key factor in selecting a future NHL player at the draft is to find the players that excel in high pressure playoff type situations".

Great book

 

[TheMadHatTrick]

I don't know if he'll make it to our pick, in fact I can see Wes taking him with Pittsburgh's pick 4 spots ahead of us, but I really like Owen Griffin. He's a smaller guy (5'10"), which makes me think we wouldn't take him even if he fell to us, but the kid's motor and compete are high end. He had an Easton Cowan type of playoffs scoring 16 goals and 13 assists in 21 games for the Generals. Hopefully with Danford on his team our amateur scouts got some eyeballs on him. He has some similarities to a guy Leach helped pick in Dallas: Mavrik Bourque.

An intelligent, detailed 200-foot centre, Griffin excels the most away from the puck, and he plays a much more hard-skill style compared to some of his 5-foot-10 counterparts. Defensively, he’s alert and aware, constantly scanning and moving to tie up threats. Also a tremendous forechecker, he has excellent physical skills and thrives down low, overpowering opponents with his motor and intensity, shrugging off pressure and extending the cycle.

 

[Jimmy Firecracker]

In the words of the Silver Fox, “Draft Schmaft.”

 

[notbias]

Maple Leafs 2025 Draft Plan Includes Big Defensemen - The Hockey Writers Toronto Maple Leafs Latest News, Analysis & More

With the interviews the Maple Leafs had with prospects during NHL Combine week, it seems like they could be looking for size on the back end.

thehockeywriters.com

Like their approach at the deadline, the Maple Leafs have also added size in recent drafts, including 2024 when they took defenceman Ben Danford 31st overall. Danford, a six-foot-two and 191-pound defenceman, finished 2024-25 with five goals and 25 points in 61 games for the Oshawa Generals. But it was his physical play that continued to drive his favourable status amongst Leafs Nation this season.

So, that in mind, what could the Maple Leafs’ attack plan be at the 2025 NHL Draft? Based on interviews, their focus still looks to be adding size on the back end.

Maple Leafs Interviewing Defensive Candidates

At the 2025 NHL Combine in Buffalo, I noticed a trend as we discussed interviews with some of the prospects. Some of the top-tiered defensive prospects didn’t hear from the Maple Leafs, but those projecting as second-round picks — for the most part — had spoken with the Maple Leafs during the week leading up to the physical testing on Saturday. Some even mentioned earlier meetings with the team throughout the season.

Of those second-round options, each of them had some things in common — they were defensemen, with larger stature, who could win puck battles, skate well and push the meter on the physical play. Bigger. Tougher. And sure, they can add something offensively when the opportunities present themselves.

Is this a tell as to how the Maple Leafs are going to approach the draft? It certainly seems like it could be. If that’s the case, here are a few of the options that the Maple Leafs could land with their late second-round pick.

Brady Peddle, Waterloo Black Hawks (USHL)

Jackson Smith, Tri-City Americans (WHL)

Carter Amico, USA U18 (NTDP)

Max Pšenička, Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Sasha Boumedienne, Boston University (NCAA)

I hope so... Hunter did so well with this strategy and Tre has hit on all the ones he's acquired so far... Webber is the next Chara...

 

[WTFMAN99]

Peyton Kettles have any chance of being there for us?

 

[mydnyte]

We still have 6 picks. Only missing a 1st and 4th round pick. Not as exciting having a higher pick but the scouting staff and staff responsible for the drafting has picks to work with this draft. Next year is gonna suck with only 3 picks though.

and we finally have a guy leading the draft that has hit on some stars later in the draft too

 

[notbias]

and we finally have a guy leading the draft that has hit on some stars later in the draft too

Not really... he's done decent in the 2nd/3rd, nothing late.

Might be wrong, but that's what I saw when I looked him up.

 

[mydnyte]

Drafting hockey players for dummies states "The key factor in selecting a future NHL player at the draft is to find the players that excel in high pressure playoff type situations".

Great book

You mean like OHL MVP, OHL Playoff MPV and Memorial Cup MVP Mitch Marner?

 

[mydnyte]

Not really... he's done decent in the 2nd/3rd, nothing late.

Might be wrong, but that's what I saw when I looked him up.

give this a read (click on that this, not this this)

 

[Marlow88]

In an article on the Athletic, “We looked at players who had a heavy compete, heavy work ethic and had skill,” Leach said of the Stars’ secret draft sauce."

I am really looking forward to see what Mark Leach can do with this draft. He does like big defensemen, but for forwards, the size does not matter as much.

 

[thewave]

You mean like OHL MVP, OHL Playoff MPV and Memorial Cup MVP Mitch Marner?

It's still the best practice. I suppose 2nd Edition will also include something about physicality.

 

[shaner8989]

Nothing can be worse than the 2020 draft. What an absolute disgrace that was. Dubas is disgrace. Arguably the worst draft of all time from any franchise

 

[Tak7]

Nothing can be worse than the 2020 draft. What an absolute disgrace that was. Dubas is disgrace. Arguably the worst draft of all time from any franchise

I know the Amirov situation was absolutely tragic, but they made 12 picks that summer who have all combined for 0 NHL games.

That's just shocking - especially for a team desperate for young cost controlled talent to be pushing through

 

[thewave]

I know the Amirov situation was absolutely tragic, but they made 12 picks that summer who have all combined for 0 NHL games.

That's just shocking - especially for a team desperate for young cost controlled talent to be pushing through

The entire scouting staff should be fired. You could let AI and Bob's consolidated lists be the guide and do the job better.

Pro scouting is just as bad.

 

[Tak7]

The entire scouting staff should be fired. You could let AI and Bob's consolidated lists be the guide and do the job better.

Pro scouting is just as bad.

We gassed up Wes Clark so much, but then you look at the results and...... it's not adding up.

Pro scouting needs a huge overhaul too.

The Panthers are heavy analytics team, and have managed to establish internal metrics on how to identify players currently under-valued and ready to blossom. The Leafs reallllly need to be getting in on this trend, but their talent evaluation process just doesn't seem to be able to do it

 

[Marlow88]

We gassed up Wes Clark so much, but then you look at the results and...... it's not adding up.

Pro scouting needs a huge overhaul too.

The Panthers are heavy analytics team, and have managed to establish internal metrics on how to identify players currently under-valued and ready to blossom. The Leafs reallllly need to be getting in on this trend, but their talent evaluation process just doesn't seem to be able to do it

To be fair, it was John Lilley that was scouting director from 2018 to 2021. Wes Clark took over after that.

 

[shaner8989]

I know the Amirov situation was absolutely tragic, but they made 12 picks that summer who have all combined for 0 NHL games.

That's just shocking - especially for a team desperate for young cost controlled talent to be pushing through

Absolutely fireable. Can’t be any more trash than that. Gm, scouts and everyone involved in that draft should have no jobs at the nhl level.

 

[hockeywiz542]

Maple Leafs scouting director will work through lack of picks in NHL draft

In his first NHL draft since being hired as Toronto Maple Leafs' amateur scouting director, Mark Leach's staff have no first-round pick.

torontosun.com

Despite a dearth of draft picks, Mark Leach and his Maple Leafs scouting staff won’t be sitting around next week making paper airplanes out of scouting pages while waiting their turn to select.

With no first-rounder this year right up to 2027 and just six picks through the first four rounds until then, Leach and about a dozen field workers must still be on their toes.

General manager Brad Treliving’s aggressive trades for playoff help emptied the cupboard, but it could fill unexpectedly.

In his first draft as Toronto’s amateur scouting director, Leach could be sitting until as late as 64th overall before the Leafs’ first selection, if Florida wins the Stanley Cup and its pick that Toronto holds drops one spot to the bottom of Round 2. The Leafs also are without a fourth-rounder this year before getting two in the fifth.

“I’m used to it,” Leach told Postmedia prior to the June 27-28 draft. “Going back to my years in Dallas and Detroit, we often had (few high) picks, but you had to be prepared for anything.”

“Brad might make a trade and we could go at anything from a first to a fourth. Our list are in order.”

Leach agrees with the forecast that this year’s draft is not deep, but full of character players.

“Someone out of it will find a way to play or a late name will pop up. The tough part of course is that at age 17, not many have matured physically and mentally or might be unprepared for the development stage.”

“I’ve seen better drafts, but the depth is there with players who can help out an organization. I’m all for getting the best available player and developing him, though sometimes when you go deeper, management wants a particular player and you grab him.”