The highly anticipated first round of the 2025 NHL Draft is scheduled to occur this Friday at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, where the New York Islanders are expected to make the first pick. After winning the draft lottery, they have the opportunity to select Matthew Schaefer, a defenseman from the Erie Otters in the OHL, who faced some setbacks this past season due to injuries.

Schaefer, despite playing only 17 games due to mononucleosis and a broken collarbone, has garnered attention for his skills and accolades, including the Canadian Hockey League Top Draft Prospect Award.

Following the Islanders, the San Jose Sharks are anticipated to pick Michael Misa, an 18-year-old center from the Saginaw Spirit, but the subsequent choices are less predictable among the Chicago Blackhawks, Utah Mammoth, and Nashville Predators.

Bettors keen on accessing betting opportunities for the draft can compare promotions from leading sportsbooks to find the best deals. Below are some highlighted betting props for potential first-round selections:

Anton Frondell: Third overall pick (-160, FanDuel)

Frondell has been recognized as the leading international skater, having captained Sweden’s bronze medal team in the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.

Caleb Desnoyers: Fourth overall pick (-150, DraftKings)

Desnoyers has been positioned in mock drafts between second and seventh, having achieved multiple gold medals with Team Canada in prestigious international events.

Porter Martone: Fifth overall pick (+180, DraftKings)

Though mock drafts suggest varying placements for Martone, most expect him to fall no lower than fifth overall, presenting a valuable scoring option for NHL teams.

James Hagens: Top-five pick (+125, FanDuel)

As one of the top-ranked North American skaters, Hagens had a memorable NCAA season, making him a strong contender for a top-five selection.

Brady Martin: Top-five pick (+120, FanDuel)

While Martin’s final ranking placed him just outside the top ten, his competitive nature and recent performance indicate he could surprise many in the draft.