As anticipation builds for the 2025 NHL Draft, which will feature 224 selections, NHL teams are fine-tuning their draft boards. It’s notable that teams typically prepare around 120 players for consideration, but many rarely venture past the mid-80s on their lists. This discrepancy suggests that while general online rankings may be consistent, each team’s evaluation diverges significantly as drafted players move into the middle rounds, with the potential for players to be drafted who are absent from some boards.
This year, the University of North Dakota (UND) has a number of prospects being discussed among NHL scouts, particularly for the later rounds of the draft. Key players from UND who could be selected include:
– **Sam Laurila:** The defenseman from Moorhead is projected to be picked in the middle rounds. Laurila, ranked No. 74 and No. 75 by various scouts, is noted for adapting his playing style moving from the National Team Development Program. Scouts highlight his growing skill set, including his mobility and offensive contributions, but emphasize the need for him to balance risks when transitioning to a professional level.
– **Cooper Simpson:** A forward with high skill potential, Simpson, ranked No. 94, has drawn mixed reviews. While scouts commend his talent, there’s concern regarding his competitiveness. A comparison was made to Alex Bump, who saw a significant rise in performance after enhancing his competitive edge.
– **Andrew O’Neill:** The Fargo native is considered a possible late-round selection or an undrafted player. O’Neill is noted for his physical play and checking abilities, attributes that could earn him trust among coaches despite concerns about his offensive skill level.
– **Ashton Schultz:** Schultz’s agility and skill have drawn attention, although some scouts worry that much of his success has come from power play situations. For him to succeed, they advise that he needs to improve his physical play and ability to engage in battles.
– **Garrett Lindberg:** As a smaller defenseman at 5-foot-11, Lindberg’s size could hinder him during the draft process, despite his leadership and intensity on the ice. His upcoming season with the USHL’s Fargo Force could provide him the platform to showcase his talents.
– **Jack Kernan:** After failing to be drafted previously, Kernan hopes that this time will be different. Recognized for his work ethic and occasional offensive creativity, he is noted for needing to increase his work rate on the ice.
– **Caleb Heil:** The goaltender has improved significantly over the past year, which could earn him a draft selection or at least an invite to development camps. His performance places him in the running for the U.S. World Junior Championship roster.
– **Josh Zakreski:** An incoming freshman at UND, Zakreski has not been chosen in previous drafts but is coming off a solid season with Portland in the WHL. As a shoot-first player, his statistics could attract NHL teams.
The evaluations being made highlight the unique perspectives that scouts have on each player. As the draft approaches, the emphasis will be on showcasing their skills and adaptability in the upcoming seasons. Each player from UND has a unique trajectory, and with hard work, there remains significant hope for all to potentially make their mark in the NHL.