With the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, the Pittsburgh Penguins selected forward Bill Zonnon from the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). The draft took place on Friday, June 27, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Zonnon, a native of Montreal, is a left-handed shot, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing around 185-190 pounds. Born on October 3, 2006, he is considered an older prospect for the 2025 draft.
Prior to the draft, Zonnon played 64 games for the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, amassing 83 points (28 goals, 55 assists). He also contributed significantly in the postseason, adding 16 points (eight goals, eight assists) in 13 games. On June 5, 2025, he was traded within the QMJHL to the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada.
Scouting reports describe Zonnon as a high-effort, two-way power forward with an imposing frame and a versatile skillset. He is known for his offensive capabilities and dominance in puck battles, combining a hard shot with excellent vision and playmaking ability. Some scouts have noted his "ridiculous backhand pass to the slot," often created off the rush or forechecking. He demonstrates strong awareness in the offensive zone and an ability to handle pressure from the defense, utilizing accurate passes and hockey sense to find teammates.
Zonnon's strengths lie in his size and physicality, which he uses effectively to shield the puck and maintain possession. He wins a significant percentage of his puck battles and positions himself well in front of the net, making him an offensive threat. He completes a high percentage of his passes, with a notable number leading to high-quality scoring chances for his teammates. Furthermore, he demonstrates elite puck anticipation and an ability to transition quickly into offense. He is also considered a versatile player, capable in various roles such as a net-front presence on the power play and a penalty killer.
However, some scouting reports indicate areas for improvement. Zonnon occasionally puck-watches in the defensive zone, which can lead to lapses in coverage. Improving his focus and positioning away from the puck is an area for growth. Some services list him as a left wing, others as a right wing or center. Scouts have also noted inconsistent effort and below average face-off win percentage.
Several scouting services had Zonnon ranked as a late first- or early second-round pick. Chris Peters from FloHockey had him at No. 28 on his list. Elite Prospects.com ranked him at No. 28, while TSN/Bob McKenzie had him at No. 29.
The Penguins acquired the 22nd overall pick from the Philadelphia Flyers in a trade earlier in the evening. The Penguins also drafted Benjamin Kindel 11th overall and Will Horcoff 24th overall. The Penguins entered the 2025 draft with 11 selections, seeking to infuse young talent into the team under first-year coach Dan Muse.
