Navigating the 2025 NHL Entry Draft without a first-round pick, the New Jersey Devils strategically utilized their seven selections across the remaining rounds to address organizational needs and bolster their prospect pool. The Devils, who had traded their first-round pick to the Calgary Flames as part of last season's Jacob Markstrom trade, entered the draft with two second-round picks (50th and 63rd overall), one third-round pick (90th overall), two fourth-round picks (99th and 114th overall), and two sixth-round picks (161st and 178th overall).
With their first pick, 50th overall, the Devils selected Conrad Fondrk, a skilled center from the U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP). Fondrk is known for his heavy shot, excellent hockey sense, and two-way responsibility. He can play both center and wing and contributed in all situations for the NTDP, including power play and penalty kill. In 40 games with the U.S. National Under-18 Team, Fondrk posted 13 goals and 14 assists for 27 points. Before a broken leg ended his season prematurely in March, he was hitting his stride, notching eight points in his last four games. He is committed to Boston University, where he will join Devils goaltending prospect Mikhail Yegorov.
At pick 63, the Devils chose Ben Kevan, a fast and skilled right winger from the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers. Kevan is a dynamic player known for his pace, energy, and creative edge. His skating is arguably his biggest asset. In 51 games with Des Moines, he recorded 13 goals and 30 assists for 43 points. He is committed to Arizona State University, though he may spend another year in the USHL first.
With the 99th overall pick, the Devils selected goaltender Trenten Bennett. The towering goalie, listed at 6-foot-7, is one of the largest in the draft class. Bennett split his year between the Kemptville 73s of the CCHL and the Owen Sound Attack in the OHL.
In the sixth round, with the 161st pick, the Devils picked David Rozsíval, a smart, two-way winger from Bílí Tygři Liberec in Czechia. At 6-foot and 185 pounds, Rozsíval plays a mature, structured game and brings a reliable presence to every shift.
By all accounts, the Devils entered the draft looking to add a blend of size, skill, and speed to replenish their prospect pool. A glaring need in the Devils' system is at center. The selection of Fondrk addresses that need, while Kevan adds speed and skill on the wing.