The 2025 NHL Draft, taking place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, is significant as it marks the first non-COVID-impacted draft in a decentralized format. It will be broadcast on ESPN and Sportsnet. The New York Islanders have the first overall pick, likely selecting defenseman Matthew Schaefer from the Erie Otters. Meanwhile, the Washington Capitals hold the 27th overall pick, with their general manager, Chris Patrick, open to the possibility of trading their selection to explore creative roster changes.
This year's event will be the first non-COVID-impacted draft to be held in a decentralized format in NHL history. Teams will not be physically present at the venue to make their selections.
Capitals general manager Chris Patrick did not rule out dealing the team's first-round selection. 'Yeah, I think you have to be open to all options...we'll try to be creative with what we can do,' Patrick said last month.
The New York Islanders hold the first overall pick. Erie Otters defenseman Matthew Schaefer is expected to go first overall and would be the first player taken no. 1 from the Otters since Connor McDavid in 2015.
The event will begin at 7 PM (ET) and air on ESPN and ESPN+ in the United States and Sportsnet in Canada.
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