The 2025 NHL Entry Draft is poised to be a pivotal event for teams seeking to bolster their rosters with skilled centers. This year’s draft class is rich with first-round candidates who primarily play center or are versatile enough to swing between center and wing positions. For the Philadelphia Flyers, this abundance aligns well with their drafting philosophy.
The Flyers have consistently adhered to a strategy of selecting the best available player according to their internal rankings, irrespective of position, especially in the first round. This year, however, their positional needs might serendipitously align with their rankings. “We are aware of our organizational needs. But, in the first round, we won’t pick centers just to pick centers. It’s going to be the available player who is highest on our list,” stated Flyers assistant general manager Brent Flahr. “Yes, if it’s a tossup between two similar players and one is a center, that can sway it. But we’re not going to pass on someone we like better if he’s a wing or a defenseman.”
Top Center Prospects for the Flyers
With the sixth overall selection, the Flyers have a range of promising centers to consider. Here’s a look at seven top candidates:
Early First-Round Candidates
- Michael Misa (Saginaw Spirit, OHL): Known for his offensive prowess in the Ontario Hockey League, Misa is a player the Flyers might need to trade up to acquire. Although primarily a center, some speculate he may transition to wing in the NHL due to defensive considerations.
- Caleb Desnoyers (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL): The younger brother of Elliot Desnoyers, Caleb is a well-rounded prospect with above-average offensive skills and reliability in defense. Despite injuries impacting his recent season, he remains a top-five candidate.
- Anton Frondell (Djurgarden, Allsvenskan): Frondell is celebrated for his shooting ability and two-way potential. Although he faced criticism for underperformance at the Under-18 World Championship, his overall potential keeps him in the top-five conversation.
- James Hagens (Boston College, NCAA): Once the favorite for the first overall pick, Hagens’ freshman year fell short of expectations, leading to projections placing him in the top-five to top-10 range. Despite his smaller stature, his offensive skill remains highly regarded.
- Brady Martin (Soo Greyhounds, OHL): Martin’s stock has risen dramatically, especially following a standout performance at the U18 tournament. Known for his gritty play and leadership potential, he is compared to NHL players like Mike Richards and Bo Horvat.
- Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs, OHL): A top playmaker alongside Hagens, O’Brien’s youth and recent recovery from injury might pose challenges, but his potential remains high as he aims to build physical strength.
- Roger McQueen (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL): Standing at 6-foot-5, McQueen’s physical attributes are impressive, though his recent back injury and inconsistent junior performance raise concerns.
Mid-to-Late First Round Projections
Should the Flyers consider trading up with their second or third picks, other centers could come into play:
- Cole Reschny (Victoria Royals, WHL): Reschny’s high skill and intelligence make him a valuable asset, though his average skating and size have kept him out of top-10 discussions.
- Ben Kindel (Calgary Hitmen, WHL): Despite his smaller frame, Kindel’s playing style draws comparisons to Nick Suzuki, and his deceptive shot adds to his appeal.
- Braeden Cootes (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL): As Team Canada’s U18 captain, Cootes is seen as a safe bet for a strong third-line center, with potential to surprise as a middle-six contributor.
Strategic Considerations for the Flyers
The Flyers’ approach to the draft reflects a balance between addressing immediate needs and securing long-term talent. With a focus on selecting the best player available, they are well-positioned to enhance their roster depth. This strategy has historically served them well, allowing flexibility in future trades and roster adjustments.
As the draft approaches, the Flyers will continue to evaluate their options, considering both their current roster composition and future aspirations. The team’s ability to adapt and make strategic decisions will be crucial in determining the success of their draft picks.
Looking Ahead
With the 2025 NHL Entry Draft on the horizon, the Flyers’ decisions will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The outcome could significantly impact the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons. As they navigate the draft, the Flyers aim to build a foundation for sustained success, leveraging their internal rankings and strategic foresight.
In the coming days, further analysis will provide insights into potential wing candidates, including swingmen like Carter Bear, who may also play a role in shaping the Flyers’ future.