The Boston Bruins enter the 2025 NHL Entry Draft with a unique opportunity to reshape their prospect pool and address key organizational needs. After a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016, the Bruins landed the No. 7 overall pick – their highest selection since 2011. This draft is crucial for the Bruins to inject high-end talent into their system, especially given their stated priority of adding depth at forward and defense. With seven picks in total, including two in the second round, General Manager Don Sweeney has significant capital to work with.

Round One: 7th Overall

The consensus among analysts is that the Bruins should target a center with the No. 7 pick. The Bruins have struggled to find a long-term replacement for Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, who provided top-tier center play for over a decade. The 2025 draft class is particularly strong at the center position, with several quality options potentially available when the Bruins are on the clock.

Several names have been linked to the Bruins with the 7th overall pick:

• Jake O'Brien (C, Brantford Bulldogs, OHL): O'Brien is a highly touted two-way center with exceptional offensive skills. He tallied an impressive 66 assists in 66 games last season, showcasing his playmaking ability and vision. O'Brien's strong two-way game and offensive talent make him an appealing option for the Bruins.
• Roger McQueen (C, Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL): McQueen is a big-bodied, right-shot center with significant upside. While a back injury limited his playing time last season, he still projects as a top-12 pick. McQueen's size and skill set are enticing, but the Bruins would need to be confident in his long-term health.
• James Hagens (C, Boston College, NCAA): Hagens is a local prospect who played at Boston College. While undersized at 5-foot-11, Hagens possesses exceptional vision and skill. He held his own as a 17-year-old centering a top line for the Eagles, finishing with 37 points in 37 games.
• Brady Martin (C, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL): Martin is described as a hard-nosed, skilled forward. He improved significantly from the 2023-24 season, tallying 72 points (33 goals, 39 assists) in 57 games this past season.

While the need for a center is apparent, some analysts suggest the Bruins could also consider a winger or defenseman with the No. 7 pick. Victor Eklund, a Swedish right winger, has been mentioned as a potential option. Eklund is a highly skilled player with excellent speed and creativity. Another possibility is Porter Martone, a right winger known for his power-forward style of play. Radim Mrtka, a defenseman, could also be a consideration.

Ultimately, the Bruins' decision will depend on which players are available and how they prioritize their needs.

Round Two: 51st and 61st Overall

The Bruins possess two second-round picks, acquired via trades. These picks provide an opportunity to add depth to their prospect pool and address needs beyond the center position.

With the 51st and 61st picks, the Bruins could target a variety of positions:

• Defense: The Bruins need to add more defensive prospects to their system. Players like Kashawn Aitcheson or Jackson Smith could be options in the second round.
• Wingers: If the Bruins opt for a center in the first round, they could use one of their second-round picks to select a winger. Justin Carbonneau could be an option.
• Goalies: Although not as pressing as other positions, the Bruins could look to add a goaltending prospect.

The Bruins' approach in the second round will likely depend on their first-round selection and the players available. Don Sweeney has shown a willingness to be flexible in the draft, so it's possible the Bruins could trade one or both of their second-round picks to move up or down in the draft order.

The 2025 NHL Draft is a critical opportunity for the Boston Bruins to address their organizational needs and replenish their prospect pool. With a top-10 pick and two second-round selections, the Bruins have the assets to add significant talent to their system and set the stage for future success.