The NHL on Saturday announced the dates and location for its 2025 entry draft, and the event will have a different look this season.
The draft will be held on Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28 in Los Angeles at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater. It was last held in Los Angeles in 2010.
Top prospects, media and fans will be in attendance, but NHL team executives, scouts and coaches will participate virtually this season.
The league opted to switch to a decentralized draft this season because the draft is quickly followed by the July 1 start of free agency.
Last year, the draft was held at the Sphere in Las Vegas with full team complements in attendance. Macklin Celebrini went first overall to the San Jose Sharks.
Here’s what to know about the 2025 NHL draft:
When is the NHL draft?
The 2025 NHL draft will be held June 27-28. The first round will be on the 27th and rounds 2-7 will be on the next day. The times haven’t been announced yet.
Where is the NHL draft?
The 2025 NHL draft will be held in Los Angeles at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater. Top prospects will be there, but not team representatives, who will take part virtually.
How to watch the NHL draft
The first day of the 2025 NHL draft will be broadcast on ESPN. The second day will be aired on NHL Network.
How to stream the NHL draft
ESPN+ will carry both days. Fubo and Sling carry ESPN and NHL Network.
Who are the top prospects?
Erie (Pennsylvania) defenseman Matthew Schaefer and Boston College center James Hagens were the top North American prospects in NHL Central Scouting’s midseason rankings. Djurgarden (Sweden) right wing Victor Eklund and center Anton Frondell are the top international prospects.
When is the NHL draft lottery?
That’s to be determined. Last year it was held on May 7. Currently, the Sharks and Chicago Blackhawks have the NHL’s worst records and would have the best draft lottery odds if they finish the season that way.
