Breaking: New York Islanders Prepare for Pivotal NHL Draft Moment
LOS ANGELES – The future looks bright for the New York Islanders as co-owner Jon Ledecky is brimming with excitement and confidence about the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft. This year’s draft, taking place on Friday at the Peacock Theater, is set to be one of the most significant events for the Islanders since the selection of John Tavares in 2009.
“The future is now for the New York Islanders,” Ledecky stated during the NHL Governors’ meeting. With the first overall pick, the Islanders are expected to select Matthew Schaefer, a 17-year-old defenseman from the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Schaefer tops the final list of North American skaters from the NHL Central Scouting Bureau after suffering a clavicle fracture during the 2023 World Junior Championship.
Sabbathing the NHL Draft Process
The Islanders have held the top pick in the draft five times before, most notably selecting Tavares in 2009 and Rick DiPietro in 2000. General Manager Mathieu Darche confirmed that the first overall pick will not be traded, focusing on assembling a younger, faster, and electrifying team.
“We are excited to put together a team that will be younger, faster, and electrifying,” Ledecky stated. “The fans want to see this, and this is the first step.”
Potential crowd Growers and Long-Time Islanders
Ledecky also emphasized the marketing opportunities that come with the first overall pick. Under previous management, marketing initiatives for the Islanders were limited, but Ledecky anticipates a renewed effort to engage fans.
“It will be new in this regard, and I think Mathieu agrees, which is the most important thing,” Ledecky said.
A Homecoming for James Hagens?
An additional highlight of the draft could be the opportunity to draft local talent, 18-year-old center James Hagens, who was born on Long Island. Hagens is highly regarded and is seen as a top prospect. The Islanders’ fan base is eagerly hoping to see him drafted by their team.
“It is a decision of hockey operations that does not belong to the owners,” Ledecky added. “I think it’s always exciting to have a local player, and we have had several over the years. It is great for our city to see a local player expected to be a first-round choice.”
Looking Forward: Building on Legacy
Regardless of additional draft picks, the first overall selection positions the Islanders for future success. Friday’s draft will be a significant event for the franchise, with an anticipated turnout of 10,000 fans at UBS Arena.
“The future is now,” Ledecky reiterated. “In everything you do in life, you don’t look behind, but in front. Each prosperous company continues to move forward, and that’s what we do.”
