The 2025 Draft Lottery has concluded, and unfortunately, the Sharks will receive the 2nd overall pick. The Islanders shockingly won the first overall pick, moving up from 10th overall. Utah followed that up in the 2nd draw, moving from 14 all the way to 4th overall (Teams are only eligible to move up 10 spots), meaning the Sharks receive the 2nd overall pick by default despite not winning any draw.
The NHL Draft lottery was an interesting experience. For the first time ever, the numbered balls were drawn live in the studio. The Sharks were looking solid after the first two balls were drawn, with a 25% chance to win. However, the third ball, ironically number 12, the number worn by Sharks great Patrick Marleau, tanked the Sharks' odds down to 9% below the eventual winner, the New York Islanders.
It’s unfortunate the Sharks did not receive the first overall pick and presumably the right to draft Matthew Shaefer in June. There isn't a massive gap between Schaefer and the rest of the field compared to Macklin Ceebrini last year. This means there still could be some movement at the top of the draft, depending on how teams view certain players.
In the event the Schaefer goes number 1 to the Islanders, the Sharks are left with an interesting decision at number 2. I looked at some of the Sharks' options earlier this week and highlighted some players they could target if they lost the lottery. Many outlets widely view Saginaw’s Michael Misa as the second-best prospect in the Draft, including Bob McKenzie’s recent top-16 draft list.
In his post-lottery presser, although Grier didn’t tip his hand on who the Sharks will select in June, he did speak highly of Michael Misa when asked.
“"Talented player. Had record-breaking type year. Someone who's had exceptional status, talented player."
Grier also mentioned that he would entertain moving off the 2nd overall pick for the right deal.
"I always have to be open to anything that we think can make us a better hockey team and a better organization. And if there's a package out there that someone presents us with, we'll have to think it through and see if it makes sense for us. I'm always trying to be open-minded to things like that."
The possibility of moving off the 2nd overall pick is an interesting idea. With the Draft being forward-heavy after Schaefer, the Sharks could entertain moving the pick to add significant futures or a young NHL star on the backend. While I view this as unlikely, it is more possible than last season when Celebrini was all but locked to go to the Sharks with the number 1 pick.
While it’s disappointing for Sharks fans not to get the number one pick, they are still adding an elite piece and are in an excellent spot heading into the future. It will be interesting to watch how everything unfolds leading up to the draft in June.