The San Jose Sharks are gearing up for the 2025 NHL Draft, where they will be selecting second overall, a position that could significantly impact the future of the franchise. As the draft approaches on June 27, the Sharks are weighing their options carefully, with several top prospects in the mix to don the teal jersey next season.
Matthew Schaefer, a defenseman from the Erie Otters, is widely regarded as the consensus number one overall pick in this year’s draft. However, with the New York Islanders winning the draft lottery and set to select first, the Sharks may have the opportunity to secure Schaefer if the Islanders opt for a different route. Schaefer, who has been sidelined for much of the season due to injury, managed to play only 17 games but still posted an impressive 22 points, including seven goals and 15 assists. His dynamic presence on the blue line and ability to control play have led many scouts to believe he could be a cornerstone for any NHL franchise.
“When he played, there’s little questioning he was the best player in this class,” said Chris Peters of FloHockey. Schaefer’s skill set and potential make him an attractive option for the Sharks, who are in need of defensive reinforcements.
In the event that the Islanders choose Schaefer, the Sharks have another promising prospect in mind: Michael Misa, a center for the Saginaw Spirit. Misa has been nothing short of spectacular this season, leading the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with 134 points, including 62 goals and 72 assists over 65 games. His remarkable scoring ability and high-end skating have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s elite forwards.
“Misa is one of the best pure goal-scorers in the CHL and is on track for one of the most impressive goal-scoring draft campaigns that we’ve seen out of the OHL in quite some time,” stated Steven Ellis from Daily Faceoff. His combination of skill and vision makes him an enticing option for the Sharks, who could use a player of his caliber to bolster their offensive lineup.
However, the Sharks may also consider Porter Martone, a right winger and captain of the Brampton Steelheads. Martone has had a standout season, ranking ninth in the OHL with 61 assists and eighth in total points with 98 across 57 games. Standing at nearly 6-foot-3 and weighing 208 pounds, Martone brings a physical presence that could complement the Sharks’ forward group.
“Mike Grier is building a team,” remarked Craig Button from TSN. “He’s got Will Smith, Macklin Celebrini up the middle of the ice. He’s got a stud defenseman in Sam Dickinson. He doesn’t have anybody like Porter Martone.” Martone’s versatility and skill set make him a valuable asset, and the Sharks might see him as a unique fit for their roster.
As the Sharks evaluate their options, it’s important to note that Grier has indicated he won’t draft solely based on need. This philosophy leaves the door open for the Sharks to select the best player available, whether that be Schaefer, Misa, or Martone. The Sharks will also keep an eye on other potential picks, including centers James Hagens, Anton Frondell, and Caleb Desnoyers, who could also make a significant impact.
Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken are preparing for their own selection at No. 8 overall. After a solid draft last year, where they picked Berkly Catton, the Kraken are hoping to find another high-end producer this time around. The draft lottery has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting selection process.
“There is a relatively high degree of uncertainty in the prospect hierarchy this year as we enter the final pre-draft stages,” said Jason Botterill, the Kraken’s general manager. The team has been considering various scenarios, including the possibility of drafting a defenseman, which would mark a departure from their recent trend of selecting forwards.
As for the top picks, the consensus points towards Matthew Schaefer being selected first by the Islanders. Following that, the Sharks are expected to take Michael Misa, solidifying their offensive future. The Chicago Blackhawks are likely to select Porter Martone, while the Utah Mammoth may opt for Anton Frondell.
As the draft approaches, speculation continues to swirl around the potential picks, with analysts and scouts weighing in on the best options for each team. With the Sharks and Kraken both poised to make impactful selections, fans are eagerly anticipating how the draft will unfold and what it will mean for the futures of both franchises.
The excitement surrounding the 2025 NHL Draft is palpable, as teams prepare to make strategic decisions that could shape their franchises for years to come. Whether it’s the Sharks securing a top-tier forward or the Kraken finally drafting a defenseman, the implications of these picks will undoubtedly resonate throughout the league.
