Inside the NHL Mock Draft 2025: Why Matthew Schaefer Could Be the Islanders’ Game-Changer No One Saw Coming

13. Detroit Red Wings: Victor Eklund, RW, Djurgården (SWEDEN-2)

In a perfect world, I think the Red Wings would add a forward with a bit more size here, but Eklund’s talent is just too much to pass up, with his speed and shot bringing potentially difference-making elements to a system that needs more pop. Physical LHD Kashawn Aitcheson was a strong consideration here as well, but ultimately, Eklund’s motor and offensive ability make him the pick. — Max Bultman

14. Columbus Blue Jackets: Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)

If this is how the draft board falls, there’s a chance the Blue Jackets strongly consider trading out of this pick if there’s a deal available that could bring immediate help to their blue line. Aitcheson, however, would certainly brighten their long-term future and become their top defensive prospect (if you consider Denton Mateychuk now a full-fledged NHLer). The blue line became a pipeline need when David Jiricek was traded to Minnesota early in the season, which is why the Jackets own the No. 20 pick, too. The odds of them actually selecting players with both those two picks are … pretty slim. — Aaron Portzline

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