Flyers Prepare for 2025 NHL Draft: Key Predictions and Insights
With the conclusion of the season, Flyers' general manager Danny Briere announced a shift in strategy, emphasizing a focus on addition rather than subtraction. This was underscored by the recent acquisition of Trevor Zegras from the Ducks, marking a significant step in the team's rebuilding process.
Briere expressed optimism about Zegras filling a crucial role at center, although he acknowledged the possibility of the 6-foot, 185-pound forward transitioning to the wing. Historically, Zegras has played primarily as a left winger over the past two seasons, but Briere indicated that head coach Rick Tocchet will ultimately determine his position. Ducks GM Pat Verbeek also noted that Zegras is expected to have opportunities to play center in Philadelphia.
However, Zegras alone does not resolve the Flyers' depth issues at center. As the NHL draft approaches this Friday in Los Angeles, Briere is armed with a wealth of selections to address these concerns.
Despite trading one draft pick to Anaheim, the Flyers still hold ten selections, including three in the first round and six within the first 50 picks. Their first-round picks are Nos. 6, 22, and 31, setting the stage for a potentially transformative draft.
In his latest mock draft, an analyst predicts that the Flyers will target two centers and a winger. For the No. 6 pick, Brady Martin from the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds is projected as a top choice. "The Flyers are high on all three of Martin, O'Brien, and Hagens," the analyst noted, suggesting that Martin and O'Brien are likely to be available for Philadelphia.
At No. 22, Russian right winger Daniil Prokhorov from Dynamo St. Petersburg is anticipated to be selected. His impressive size at 6-foot-5 would add much-needed physicality to the Flyers' lineup. "Prokhorov is a strong, competitive secondary-scoring winger who can skate," the analyst remarked.
William Horcoff from the University of Michigan rounds out the first-round predictions. His notable size at 6-foot-4 and 203 pounds makes him an appealing option for Philadelphia.
Other analysts have also weighed in on potential picks. One suggests that James Hagens from Boston University could be a fit at No. 6, highlighting his point-per-game performance as a freshman and standout skills showcased at the World Juniors.
At pick No. 22, another analyst sees defenseman Cameron Reid as a strong candidate due to his explosive skating and physical play. The final first-round prediction includes goalie Jack Ivankovic, described as "probably the most skilled goalie in this draft."
Another perspective suggests that the Flyers will secure a goalie, winger, and another goaltender in their first-round selections. For their top pick, Jake O'Brien from Brantford of the OHL is favored due to his creativity and ability to read plays effectively.
Elite Prospects also aligns with predictions of Hagens at No. 6 and Ravensbergen at No. 31 while suggesting right-handed defenseman Blake Fiddler at No. 22. Fiddler's strong mobility and potential make him an intriguing option for Philadelphia.
As anticipation builds for the draft, various analysts continue to speculate on how these selections could reshape the Flyers' future. The upcoming weekend promises to be pivotal for Philadelphia as they look to enhance their roster through strategic drafting.
