Sun Jun 29 10:50:00 UTC 2025: ## 2025 NHL Draft Delivers Emotional Moments and Surprises in Los Angeles
**LOS ANGELES –** The 2025 Upper Deck NHL Draft, held at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater, was filled with unforgettable moments, from emotional tributes to surprising picks.
The New York Islanders selected defenseman Matthew Schaefer with the No. 1 pick, but the moment was bittersweet. Schaefer, overcome with emotion, pointed to the sky in memory of his mother, Jennifer Schaefer, who passed away from breast cancer in 2024. He wore a jersey with a lavender ribbon and her initials, a poignant reminder of her influence on his life.
The draft also provided unique celebrations and touching tributes. Brady Martin, selected fifth overall by the Nashville Predators, celebrated on his family’s dairy farm in Ontario, watching the announcement on a tractor-mounted screen with 100 loved ones. The Boston Bruins surprised James Hagens, their No. 7 pick, with an announcement from his favorite actor, Adam Sandler.
The Columbus Blue Jackets honored the memory of Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically passed away in 2024, by having his widow, Meredith Gaudreau, announce their first-round picks. She received a standing ovation as she selected Jackson Smith (No. 14) and Pyotr Andreyanov (No. 20).
Roger McQueen had a special surprise when the Anaheim Ducks picked him at No. 10, he was whisked away to Disneyland via helicopter to celebrate with his family, and Donald Duck.
The Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins involved local sports legends in their selections. Charles Barkley and Brandon Graham announced the Flyers’ picks, while Kris Letang and his son announced the Penguins’ selection.
Adding to the excitement, a last-minute twist saw Aidan Park, a friend of a first-round pick, unexpectedly drafted by the Edmonton Oilers with the second-to-last pick, No. 223.
The draft also saw a surge in college players selected, with 10 NCAA Division I players chosen in the first round, and a high number of Canadian players. Sweden ended a 13-year drought with two players being drafted.
First Piper 