The Vegas Golden Knights’ 2025 NHL Draft class may have been small, but it packed a few intriguing prospects worth watching. Despite not owning a first-round pick—traded to the San Jose Sharks in 2024 for veteran Tomas Hertl—Vegas made four total selections, starting at No. 55 overall. The buzz may have centered around their blockbuster sign-and-trade acquisition of Mitch Marner, but their draft decisions also deserve attention.
Let’s evaluate each pick and assign a final grade for Vegas’ 2025 draft haul.
Round 2, Pick 55: Jakob Ihs-Wozniak – F, Sweden
Once projected as a top-five pick, Jakob Ihs-Wozniak slipped to the second round after a somewhat stagnant 2024-25 season. His biggest knocks include an inconsistent motor and limited playmaking creativity. However, Ihs-Wozniak possesses a lethal shot and strong skating ability, making him a potential middle-six winger if properly developed.
NHL Projection: Middle-six forward
Draft Value: High-upside gamble
Verdict: A worthwhile swing on a former first-round talent
Round 3, Pick 85: Mateo Nobert – C, QMJHL
Mateo Nobert was one of the better playmakers in the QMJHL last season, racking up 28 goals and showcasing powerplay prowess. While his skating and size may limit his ceiling, his vision and creativity could earn him a role as a bottom-six NHL center in the future.
NHL Projection: Bottom-six center
Draft Value: Solid, high-IQ addition
Verdict: A smart depth pick with clear upside
Round 6, Pick 186: Alex Weiermair – C, WHL
Known for his relentless forechecking and high motor, Alex Weiermair brings grit and energy to the organization. He isn’t expected to offer much offensively, but his defensive reliability and penalty-killing potential make him a candidate for a fourth-line role if everything clicks.
NHL Projection: Defensive depth center
Draft Value: Low-risk grinder
Verdict: Potential value pick in the late rounds
Round 6, Pick 187: Gustav Sjöqvist – D, Sweden
The lone defenseman drafted by Vegas in 2025, Gustav Sjöqvist is a physical, hard-hitting blueliner who impressed in Sweden’s top junior league. While his offense may not transition to the NHL, his checking and defensive instincts could make him a viable bottom-pairing option down the road.
NHL Projection: Bottom-pairing shutdown defenseman
Draft Value: Tough, stay-at-home defender
Verdict: Intriguing upside in a late-round selection
Final Grade: C-
The Vegas Golden Knights’ 2025 NHL Draft was light in quantity but not entirely devoid of quality. With no first-round selection and only four picks, the Knights focused on high-upside swings and gritty, responsible players. Ihs-Wozniak has the potential to be a game-changer if he meets his ceiling, while Nobert and Sjöqvist provide realistic NHL pathways.
Still, the overall class lacks immediate impact players and feels more developmental than foundational. With strong development and patience, however, this group could eventually provide long-term value for the organization.
