Penguins Could Double-Dip In 2025 NHL Draft’s First Round

The Pittsburgh Penguins may head into the 2025 NHL Draft with back-to-back first-round selections — and with them, a chance to reshape their prospect pool.

The 11th overall pick was already theirs, but they also acquired a conditional first-rounder from the New York Rangers as part of a January 31 trade with the Vancouver Canucks. That pick currently sits at No. 12 and would transfer to Pittsburgh if the terms of that deal are met. The setup gives general manager Kyle Dubas valuable flexibility as the top 10 unfolds.

Zach McQueen’s situation, in particular, could test how much risk Pittsburgh is willing to take on.

“McQueen probably has more boom/bust than anyone at the top of the draft,” writes Hooks Orpik of Pensburgh. “If he heals, the back issue could become a minor footnote in his story… or the back issue could be a dominant factor in a short playing career.”

Should players like McQueen and defenseman Lukas Mrtka be off the board, the Penguins may turn to winger Victor Eklund, defenseman Jackson Smith, or forward Kashawn Aitcheson. Eklund’s slight frame might keep him out of the top 10, but his offensive upside is notable.

“Eklund has a high ceiling and could be a great piece of the puzzle,” Orpik added.

Aitcheson brings physicality and scoring touch, while Smith fits Pittsburgh’s recent trend of drafting from the WHL and Western Canada. If the Penguins identify a must-have player during combine meetings, moving up a few spots is also in play.

However the top 10 shakes out, Pittsburgh will be in position to add impact talent — maybe even twice.

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