On the second day of the 2025 NHL Draft, following the acquisition of Roger McQueen on day one, the Anaheim Ducks made nine more selections, bringing their total new prospects to ten. The Ducks utilized their picks, including two each in the second, fourth, and fifth rounds, as highlighted by assistant general manager and director of amateur scouting Dachshund during his post-draft remarks.
"It’s not overly focused on position or playing style," Madden explained. "We aim to create balance, but ultimately, the path to the NHL is tough. These young players will need strong support and guidance for the next four or five years to succeed."
Here’s a brief overview of the Ducks’ second-day picks in the 2025 NHL Draft:
Eric Nilsson (45th overall, forward, Djurgårdens IF)
Madden called Nilsson "their man," despite concerns he might be taken before the Ducks’ turn. After playing last season with Djurgårdens J20, Nilsson is set to play in Michigan, experiencing a different style of hockey in the U.S., which he believes will enhance his development.
Lasse Boerius (60th overall, defenseman, Finnish Pack Movement)
Boerius is a Finnish defenseman with a profile Madden has often targeted in past drafts. He impressed at the U18 World Juniors and gained senior team experience in Finland this past season.
Noah Read (72nd overall, forward, London Knights)
Read had a versatile rookie season in the OHL, playing various roles on a strong Knights lineup. He contributed to both OHL and Memorial Cup championships and is poised to take on a larger role next season.
I Was Shocked (101st overall, defenseman, US NTDP)
Committed to the University of Michigan, Shocked embodies the puck-moving defenseman archetype favored by the Ducks. He was alternate captain for Team USA’s U18 World Juniors and posted solid points per game.
Elijah Neuenschwander (104th overall, goaltender, HC Fribourg-Gottéron)
A 6-foot-4 native of Biel Bienne, Neuenschwander is reminiscent of former Duck Jonas Hiller. Despite being a second-round pick, his size and international experience make him a standout goaltender prospect.
Alexis Mathieu (136th overall, defenseman, Baie-Comeau Drakkar)
Mathieu, standing 6-foot-4 like Neuenschwander, is an offensive defenseman known for his physical play. He was notably one of only two Ducks draft picks present at the event, receiving cheers from family and fans.
Émile Guité (159th overall, forward, Saguenéens de Chicoutimi)
Once projected as a top-64 pick, Guité’s draft stock fell due to inconsistent performance during the season. However, the Ducks believe he has the potential to fulfill his early promise.
Anthony Alaine Samake (168th overall, defenseman, Sioux City Musketeers)
Among the youngest in the draft, Samake will join fellow 2024 pick Alexandre Bray next season in college hockey. His early college transition and late birth date offer a long development timeline.
Brady Turco (200th overall, forward, Brandon Wheat Kings)
Turco, a McQueen junior teammate younger than Samake, is smaller in stature but shows promising offensive instincts. He is expected to benefit from a larger role with Brandon in the upcoming season.
Fan Take: This haul of prospects highlights Anaheim’s thoughtful approach to building a balanced and talented future roster. For hockey fans, these young players represent hope and excitement, potentially shaping the team’s success and impacting the sport for years to come.
