Bryce Pickford, born on April 2, 2006, is a right-shot defenseman currently eligible for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. The Edmonton, Alberta native has garnered attention from scouts and analysts alike due to his impressive play, particularly during the 2024-2025 season with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League (WHL).

Pickford is considered a two-way defenseman, meaning he contributes effectively in both the offensive and defensive zones. Standing at 6'0" and weighing around 190 lbs, he possesses a sturdy frame that aids him in puck battles and defensive responsibilities. While not exceptionally large, he plays with a level of grit and determination often seen in bigger players.

Pickford's journey through the WHL has been marked by consistent development. He previously played for the Seattle Thunderbirds, where he won a WHL Championship in 2023. However, it was his trade to the Medicine Hat Tigers that seemingly unlocked his full potential. Under the guidance of coach Willie Desjardins, Pickford's offensive game flourished, complementing his already solid defensive foundation.

During the 2024-2025 WHL season, Pickford recorded an impressive 47 points (20 goals and 27 assists) in 48 games. This offensive surge placed him among the top-scoring defensemen in the league. His knack for finding shooting lanes and his accurate shot made him a potent threat from the blue line. According to Elite Prospects' Mitchell Brown, Pickford is particularly comfortable in the offensive zone, where he utilizes his shot effectively, especially his one-timers.

Beyond his regular season performance, Pickford elevated his game during the 2025 WHL Playoffs. He set a modern WHL record (since 1996) by scoring in seven consecutive playoff games as a defenseman. His offensive contributions were crucial to the Tigers' success, ultimately leading them to the 2025 WHL Championship. Over his last nine games (playoffs and Memorial Cup), he scored an impressive 12 goals. He also set a new record for most postseason goals by a CHL defender with 13, surpassing Kris Letang’s previous record.

Scouting reports describe Pickford as a "risk-mitigating defender" who excels at keeping attackers to the outside and winning battles for puck retrievals. He demonstrates good awareness in his own zone, effectively eliminating off-puck threats. Offensively, he showcases puck-carrying skills and vision on breakouts, often stepping into space or moving laterally to create opportunities. Joe Frazier, an associate coach, has praised Pickford's work ethic and his commitment to being a complete defender.

Pickford's draft rankings vary across different scouting services, reflecting the subjective nature of prospect evaluation. Elite Prospects ranked him #95, while TSN's Craig Button placed him at #68. FCHOCKEY had him lower at #262, and NHL Central Scouting ranked him #100 among North American skaters. Despite the varying rankings, the consensus is that Pickford has significantly improved his draft stock, particularly after being passed over in the 2024 NHL Draft.

Several factors contribute to Pickford's appeal as an NHL prospect. His offensive development, combined with his responsible defensive play, makes him a valuable asset. His experience as a two-time WHL champion (with Seattle in 2023 and Medicine Hat in 2025) demonstrates his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Furthermore, his leadership qualities, as evidenced by his role as an alternate captain for the Tigers, suggest he has the character and maturity to succeed at the next level.

While Pickford possesses many desirable traits, scouts have identified areas for improvement. He sometimes forces plays and needs to exhibit more patience with the puck. However, his willingness to take chances and his confidence often lead to positive outcomes.

Overall, Bryce Pickford is a compelling prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft. His combination of offensive skill, defensive responsibility, and championship experience makes him a player to watch. Several teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs and San Jose Sharks, are reportedly interested in Pickford. Depending on his continued development and performance, he could be selected as early as the late second round or in the third round of the draft.