The 2025 NHL Scouting Combine took place in Buffalo this past weekend, setting the stage for the highly anticipated 2025 NHL Draft on June 27-28. This year’s combine introduced a unique twist with the draft decentralized, as team personnel remained at their headquarters while the draft will be held in Los Angeles. This change eliminated the traditional dinners and family meetings during draft week, making the combine even more critical for player evaluations.

Key Changes in the Scouting Combine

Over the past decade, the scouting combine has evolved significantly. Teams now conduct interviews in private suites at the Sabres' KeyBank Center, with players rotating through 15-minute sessions. This format, often referred to as the "interrogation gauntlet," allows teams to gain deeper insights into prospects' personalities and hockey IQ.

Top Prospects and Their Draft Stock

Matthew Schaefer, the No. 1-ranked prospect, is widely expected to be selected first overall by the New York Islanders. Meanwhile, James Hagens, who dined with multiple teams including the Islanders and Utah Mammoth, remains a hot commodity. Hagens' dream of winning a Stanley Cup with the Islanders adds an intriguing narrative to his draft journey.

Brady Martin has seen his stock rise significantly, with some scouts comparing him to Sam Bennett. Martin’s unique training regimen and pest-like qualities have made him a potential top-10 pick, with the Boston Bruins reportedly interested at No. 7.

Team Strategies and Trade Rumors

The Chicago Blackhawks, holding the third pick, notably refrained from taking any prospects to dinner, sparking speculation about their draft strategy. Similarly, the Philadelphia Flyers cast a wide net, focusing on centers and goalies, including Joshua Ravensbergen and Semyon Frolov.

Trade rumors are also swirling, with the Vancouver Canucks potentially using their 15th pick to acquire immediate help at center. The Columbus Blue Jackets are also rumored to be exploring trades to bolster their roster.

Fitness Testing and Injury Concerns

Fitness testing revealed some standout performances, with Will Horcoff setting a combine record in the standing long jump. However, concerns linger around Roger McQueen’s back injury, which could impact his draft position despite his impressive combine performance.

Insights from Team Interviews

Teams employed creative methods to evaluate prospects. The Pittsburgh Penguins used video clips to test players’ decision-making, while the Ottawa Senators asked prospects to tell jokes to gauge their quick thinking. The Montreal Canadiens posed unique scenarios, such as being stranded in the desert, to assess problem-solving skills.

The Road to the Draft

With the draft just weeks away, the combine has laid the groundwork for potential trades and free agent signings. The absence of Vancouver Canucks GM Patrik Allvin raised eyebrows, as his team is expected to be active in the trade market.

As the hockey world gears up for the draft, one thing is clear: the 2025 NHL Scouting Combine has set the stage for a dynamic and unpredictable draft season.