I Don’t Know Why, But I Just Know These NHL Draft Picks Just Will Work Out

I don’t know about anybody else, but does anyone ever just get the feeling when they are watching a draft in any sport that you just have a feeling a certain pick will work out well for a team? You don't know, you have no reason to believe it, but you just know deep down when a pick is going to work out. No in-depth analysis, no advanced scouting, no highlight reels. Just… vibes.

Well, in light of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft wrapping up this weekend, here are some of my favorite picks from the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft — based strictly on vibes.

Porter Martone – Philadelphia Flyers (6th Overall)

Standing at 6'3 and 208 pounds, Martone feels like a perfect Philadelphia Flyer to me as Rick Tocchet aims to bring that "Broad Street Bully" physical type of play back to the city of Brotherly Love. Because of his grit, size, and attitude that he plays with, I think Martone will be very successful in Philly.

James Hagens – Boston Bruins (7th Overall)

As a Montreal Canadiens fan, this one kills me to say… but the pick is perfect.

James Hagens entered the season in the conversation to go No. 1 overall. He ended up sliding a bit, but now lands in Boston — a spot that feels like home. While there were rumors of a potential homecoming with the Islanders had they traded up, the Bruins made sure he stayed put in the city where he played his college hockey at Boston College.

If Hagens develops into the No. 1 center many expected him to be at the start of the year, he could become the next great Bruin.

Carter Bear- Detroit Red Wings (13th Overall)

I’ll be real with you: I know nothing about this player. But I trust the Red Wings’ development system and everything about this pick just feels right. I think this kid could turn into a future core piece as they attempt to get back their winning ways.

Braeden Cootes- Vancouver Canucks (15th Overall)

All the draft scouts and hockey people I trust say this kid is a great leader and should be a huge piece for the Canucks going forward. I don't know why, but I get Trevor Linden vibes from Cootes. I just believe he'll end up wearing a letter in Vancouver for a longtime. The Canucks got themselves a dude.

Look, this wasn't a draft review, or a "winners or losers" essay, these were just picks I think will end up panning out for these four franchises.

Sometimes, that’s all you need.

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