Discover the latest midseason evaluation of the 2025 NHL Draft class. From Matthew Schaefer’s defensive dominance to Ben Kindel’s surprise impact in Pittsburgh, we break down the elite prospects and rising stars shaping the future of the NHL today.
It’s been six months since the hockey world gathered in Los Angeles for a franchise-altering summer. Now that we’ve reached the midway point of the season, it’s the perfect time to look back at the 2025 NHL Draft class and see who is living up to the hype and who is exceeding it.
Midseason Evaluation: Top 2025 Prospects at a Glance
| Player | Team (NHL) | Current Role / Status | Key Strength |
| Matthew Schaefer | NY Islanders | Top-Pairing Defenseman | Elite Skating & Hockey Sense |
| Michael Misa | San Jose Sharks | Top-Six Center | High-End Skill & Possession |
| Roger McQueen | Anaheim Ducks | Power Forward | Rare Size & Skill Combo |
| Ben Kindel | Pittsburgh Penguins | Immediate Contributor | Relentless Motor & IQ |
| Alexander Zharovsky | KHL / Prospect | Pro-Ready Scorer | High-Pace Playmaking |
Matthew Schaefer: The Undisputed Number One
When the New York Islanders called Matthew Schaefer’s name at first overall, there was a quiet debate in the scouting world. Was he truly ahead of names like Michael Misa or James Hagens? Six months later, that debate has been effectively silenced. Schaefer has emerged as the premier talent of the 2025 NHL Draft class, playing minutes that are almost unheard of for an 18-year-old defenseman.
Watching Schaefer move on the ice is a masterclass in modern defense. His skating is effortless, allowing him to tilt the ice and join the rush without ever being caught out of position. He isn’t just surviving in the NHL; he is an immediate impact player who projects as a franchise-defining No. 1 blueliner. If he continues this trajectory, he could go down as one of the most successful defensive picks of the decade.
Roger McQueen and the Power Forward Archetype
Drafted by the Anaheim Ducks, Roger McQueen was always a fascinating case study. He possesses a massive frame and elite hands, but injuries during his draft year left some scouts questioning his consistency. This season, those questions have been answered. After a slightly slow start at Providence, McQueen has hit his stride, looking every bit like the dominant power forward the Ducks envisioned.
What makes McQueen a standout in the 2025 NHL Draft class is his rare combination of size and finesse. He has developed a “mean streak” that scouts love, making him a nightmare for defenders in the corners. When you pair that physicality with his ability to finish plays, you get a player who can fill a unique role in a team’s top-six.
The Meteoric Rise of Alexander Zharovsky
Every draft has its “revelation,” and for this group, it’s undoubtedly Alexander Zharovsky. Initially seen as a high second-round talent, Zharovsky’s performance in the KHL this season has been nothing short of historic. It is extremely rare for a teenager to produce offensive numbers at this level in a professional men’s league.
His ability to make high-end plays at top speed has vaulted him up the rankings. While he was originally a “wait-and-see” prospect, he now looks like a premium scoring forward who can run a power play at the NHL level. For teams that passed on him in the early stages of the 2025 NHL Draft class, there might be some serious “draft-day regret” brewing.
Ben Kindel: The Penguins’ Secret Weapon
The Pittsburgh Penguins have a knack for finding players who fit their system, and Ben Kindel at No. 11 looks like a masterstroke. Despite initial concerns about his size, Kindel has defied the odds to become an immediate contributor. With 19 points in his first 42 games, he is proving that “hockey IQ” and a high motor can overcome physical limitations.
Kindel processes the game faster than most veterans. He competes for every loose puck and has an uncanny ability to make his teammates better. In a 2025 NHL Draft class filled with high-profile names, Kindel is quietly proving to be one of the most pro-ready players of the bunch.
Evaluating the “Best of the Rest”
The depth of the 2025 NHL Draft class is further highlighted by players like Michael Misa and James Hagens. Misa has been a steady force for the San Jose Sharks, driving possession and showing off the tools that made him an “exceptional status” player in the OHL. Meanwhile, James Hagens, who famously fell to No. 7, is playing with a chip on his shoulder in Boston, displaying elite vision and a renewed competitive fire.
On the defensive side, the Islanders have another gem in Kashawn Aitcheson. While Schaefer brings the finesse, Aitcheson brings the thunder. He has been arguably the most physical defenseman in the OHL this year while surprisingly adding a goal-per-game scoring touch. Finally, Joshua Ravensbergen is establishing himself as the goaltender of the future for San Jose, showing the athleticism and poise needed to become a legitimate NHL starter.
Conclusion: A Class Defined by Impact
As we look at the progress of the 2025 NHL Draft class, it’s clear that this group is built for the modern game. Whether it’s the blueline dominance of Matthew Schaefer or the high-IQ play of Ben Kindel, these players aren’t just prospects anymore—they are the new reality of the league.
The second half of the season will likely bring even more growth, but for now, the 2025 NHL Draft class appears to be one of the most talented and deep groups we’ve seen in years. Fans in New York, Anaheim, and Pittsburgh should be very excited about what the future holds for their young stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the best defenseman in the 2025 NHL Draft class?
Matthew Schaefer is currently the top-rated defenseman. His elite skating and impact as an 18-year-old for the Islanders have made him the clear standout of the 2025 NHL Draft class.
2. Has Michael Misa been successful in the NHL so far?
Yes, Michael Misa has been a strong prospect for the San Jose Sharks. While he has moved in and out of the lineup, his possession metrics and skating tools suggest he will be a top-six center for years to come.
3. Why did James Hagens fall in the draft?
James Hagens fell to the 7th pick primarily due to concerns about his size and a perceived lack of production in high-stakes games during his draft year. However, his performance this season has shown he remains an elite playmaker.
4. Is Alexander Zharovsky coming to the NHL soon?
While Zharovsky is currently playing in the KHL, his rapid development and scoring pace have made him a top priority for the NHL team that holds his rights. He projects as a top-six scoring forward.
5. Which team had the best results from the 2025 NHL Draft class?
The New York Islanders are currently seeing the most immediate success, with both Matthew Schaefer and Kashawn Aitcheson showing elite potential at the professional and junior levels.
