The 2025 NHL Draft was one of the more difficult ones to predict in recent years with prospect rankings and mocks all over the map. After the first two picks, there were a handful of players who were relatively equal in terms of their evaluation tier.
Adding to the drama several teams in the top-10 were reportedly open to moving their pick which fueled speculation about opportunities to move up in the draft.
For the Montreal Canadiens the debate amongst analysts and fans was about whether the team would use the 16th and 17th picks to strategically add to their talent pool or use the picks as an opportunity to improve the current roster, particularly their top-six.
When the dust was settled on Day 1 of the draft, the Canadiens added an elite puck-moving defenseman which universally thrilled Habs fans. The dealing continued on Day 2 as Kent Hughes moved up to grab a highly-skilled forward early in the second round. Montreal added nine prospects in total to their talent pool.
The Canadiens haul at this year’s NHL Draft is the focus of this week’s episode of the Canadiens Connection podcast. We break down the acquisition of Noah Dobson, new prospects and discuss the shift towards a team-building phase of the organizational rebuild.
NEW PODCAST: Hughes Swings Big – Dobson, Draft Picks, Future of the Habs | Canadiens Connection ep 354
We also review the Canadiens new prospect showdown and pre-season schedule while expressing our shock at the recent decision by the Hockey Hall of Fame. We conclude the episode with comments, texts, and emails from our loyal Canadiens Connection listeners.
Canadiens Connection question of the week: With the Kent Hughes still in search of top-six talent, which player would you target to add through trade or free agency this summer?
Canadiens Connection podcast: Kent Hughes Swings Big
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