Finnish Prospects Fall Short
Fewer Finns in 2025 NHL Draft
The 2025 NHL Draft witnessed a significant drop in Finnish player nominations. This year’s tally of eight Finnish draftees presents a sharp decline from the 18 picked in the previous year, evoking earlier trends of limited Finnish participation.
Top Finnish Prospect
Lasse Boelius was the first Finn to make the cut, drafted by the Anaheim Ducks at the 60th overall position. A defenseman with a left-hand shot, Boelius’ past performances in the U20 Junior League made him a strong candidate, yet he was drafted later than experts predicted.
Follow-up Selections
Benjamin Rautiainen, taken by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the fourth round at 108th, follows a season of impressive play with Tappara in the SM-liiga. His draft marks a significant leap, contrasting his undrafted status from the past two years.
Additional Finnish Picks
The fifth round saw more Finnish names. Max Westergård attracted attention following his debut in the Swedish SHL, picked by the Philadelphia Flyers at 132nd. The Dallas Stars continued their Finnish scouting legacy by selecting Atte Joki, a promising talent from Lukko’s U20 at 146th.
Remarkable Choices
Goaltender Petteri Rimpinen, chosen by the LA Kings at 152nd, stood out for his exemplary performances in the SM-liiga and junior World Championships. Later selections included defenseman Reko Alanko from Jokerit’s U20 and goaltender Daniel Salonen from Lukko’s U20 squad.
