1 year ago
James Hagens' NHL Draft Stock Drops as Schaefer Rises
Imagine the NHL draft is like choosing players for a kids' hockey game.
James Hagens was once the favorite to be picked first, like the best player.
But now, some people think another player, Matthew Schaefer, is better.
Scouts are worried Hagens might struggle in the NHL because he's not as big or tough as other players.
Schaefer is a strong defender, and everyone agrees, he's great at skating and controlling the game from the back.
The New York Islanders, who get to pick players, need to decide who will help them win games – Hagens, who scores a lot, or Schaefer, the talented defenseman.
It's a tough decision for the team!
James Hagens' draft stock has fallen after being a top prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft.
Concerns exist regarding Hagens' ability to translate his game to the NHL due to his size and physicality.
Defenseman Matthew Schaefer is now considered the top prospect by most scouts.
Schaefer is seen as a potential top-pairing NHL blueliner with exceptional skating and two-way skills.
The New York Islanders face a critical decision in the draft, potentially choosing between Hagens and Schaefer.
- Who
- James Hagens and Matthew Schaefer
- What
- A shift in draft rankings, with Hagens' stock declining and Schaefer's rising.
- Where
- NHL
- When
- The 2025 NHL Draft
- Why
- Due to concerns about Hagens' NHL transition and Schaefer's strong skills.
Key facts
- Draft Year
- 2025 NHL Draft
- Player Affected
- James Hagens
- Rising Prospect
- Matthew Schaefer
- Hagens' Height
- 5-foot-11
- Schaefer's Strengths
- Exceptional skating and two-way skills
- Team Involved
- New York Islanders