Despite not having a first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Minnesota Wild fans have several reasons to be excited about the event held on June 27th and 28th in Los Angeles. The Wild's management has been proactive in acquiring assets and building a prospect pool that aims to sustain the team's competitiveness for years to come.
Minnesota Wild currently owns four picks in the 2025 NHL Draft. The Wild is set to make its first selection in the second round, 52nd overall. They also have picks in the fourth round (121st overall from Toronto and 102nd overall from Seattle), the fifth round (141st overall from Columbus), and the sixth round (180th overall).
Even without a first-round pick, the Wild's Director of Amateur Scouting, Judd Brackett, expresses confidence in finding impactful players in the later rounds. The team's management believes they already made a significant addition by acquiring defenseman David Jiricek, a former high draft pick, in a trade.
Several prospects are expected to be available when the Wild make their first pick at No. 52. Jack Nesbitt, a center from the Windsor Spitfires in the OHL, is one potential option. Nesbitt is a sizable player with a strong offensive game. Ethan Czata, another center from the Niagara Ice Dogs, is another potential option. The Wild have been looking to strengthen their center position for a while.
The Wild have a few up-and-coming defenders and forwards ascending but lacks dynamic scoring options. The team needs some more depth down the middle in the system.
Several Minnesota-born players could also be selected in the draft. These include Logan Hensler, Mason West, Jacob Rombach, and Conrad Fondrk. In the later rounds, the Wild might consider local talents like Nolan Geerdes or Blake Vanek.
Wild General Manager Bill Guerin has indicated that acquiring a first-round pick isn't a priority, but he's open to the possibility. The team is comfortable with their current position, having already acquired David Jiricek. The focus remains on adding organizational depth and restocking the Iowa Wild.
