The Calgary Flames will select sixth overall in the 2025 NHL Draft on June 26, a result that, while the worst possible outcome from the draft lottery, should still land them a talented player. General Manager Craig Conroy reiterated the team's commitment to taking the best player available, a strategy they have employed in recent drafts.
Top of the Draft Order
The Toronto Maple Leafs hold the first overall pick and are expected to select Gavin McKenna, a highly skilled winger from Penn State who recorded 51 points in 35 games. McKenna is widely regarded as the consensus top prospect and fits Toronto's immediate needs.
The San Jose Sharks pick second and may choose left winger Ivar Stenberg from Frolunda of the SHL. Stenberg impressed at the World Juniors and has been considered a potential top prospect. Sharks GM Mike Grier indicated they will take the best player available, given their deep prospect pool.
The Vancouver Canucks, selecting third, could pick centre Caleb Malhotra from Brantford of the OHL. Malhotra, son of former Canuck Manny Malhotra, is considered the top centre in the draft after a 29-goal, 55-assist season. He fits Vancouver's rebuilding plans.
The Chicago Blackhawks hold the fourth pick and may select right defenceman Chase Reid from Sault Ste. Marie of the OHL. Reid, a smooth-skating American, tallied 48 points in 45 games and excelled at the World Juniors. He is projected as the first defenceman off the board.
The New York Rangers pick fifth and could choose right defenceman Keaton Verhoeff from North Dakota. At 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds, Verhoeff possesses NHL-ready size and strong defensive skills, with untapped offensive potential.
Flames' Potential Pick at No. 6
With the sixth pick, the Flames may target left defenceman Carson Carels from Prince George of the WHL. Carels, who played for Team Canada at the World Juniors, is a high-end prospect some experts rank as high as third overall. While a centre like Tynan Lawrence would address a key position, Carels fits an organizational need for a left-shot defenceman and could be the best player available at that spot.
