HOT NEWS: Preds Scouts Preparing for Fifth Overall Pick, Planning NHL Draft Strategy During…………… view more

HOT NEWS: Predators Scouts Preparing for Fifth Overall Pick, Planning NHL Draft Strategy

The Nashville Predators are gearing up for the 2025 NHL Draft, where they hold the fifth overall pick—their highest selection in over a decade. General Manager Barry Trotz and the scouting team are meticulously crafting a strategy to bolster the team’s offensive prowess and accelerate their rebuilding process.(

Draft Strategy: Speed, Skill, and Scoring

Trotz has emphasized the need to inject speed and skill into the lineup, aiming to enhance the team’s scoring capabilities. This focus aligns with the Predators’ broader strategy to build a more dynamic and high-scoring team. The organization has a history of selecting forwards in the first round, and this trend is expected to continue. With three first-round picks in the 2025 Draft, including the fifth overall, Nashville is in a prime position to select a top-tier forward .

 Potential Targets at Fifth Overall

Several prospects are under consideration for the fifth pick:

• Michael Misa (C, Saginaw Spirit): A prolific scorer with 134 points last season, Misa is known for his competitiveness and NHL readiness. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 185 pounds, he plans to add more weight over the summer to prepare for the NHL’s physical demands .
• Porter Martone (F, Brampton Steelheads): As the captain of the Steelheads, Martone tallied 98 points in 57 games. Despite concerns about his skating, his offensive production makes him an intriguing option .
• Anton Frondell (F, Djurgårdens IF) and Victor Eklund (F, Djurgårdens IF): Both Swedish forwards offer high skill levels and could be valuable additions to the Predators’ forward group.

 Building Through the Draft

The Predators’ commitment to building through the draft is evident. With a focus on acquiring speed and skill, the team aims to develop a competitive core that can contend in the near future. The presence of multiple high-end prospects in the system, including several first-round picks, positions Nashville for sustained success .

 Scouting and Decision-Making

The scouting team is conducting thorough evaluations to ensure the best possible selections. While the fifth overall pick is a significant opportunity, the Predators are also considering the depth of the draft class to make informed decisions. The team’s strategy includes the possibility of trading up or down to secure the most impactful players for their needs .

Draft Day Details

The 2025 NHL Draft is scheduled for June 27-28 in Los Angeles. With three first-round picks, the Predators are poised to make significant moves that could shape the future of the franchise.

As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Nashville to see how they leverage their position to enhance their roster and set the stage for the next era of Predators hockey