NHL 2025 Draft Top Prospects Rookie Cards

Published: June 24, 2025

⏱️ 9 min read

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Table of Contents

Introduction

The NHL 2025 Draft isn’t just a pivotal point for franchises searching for their next star—it’s shaping up to be a watershed moment for hockey card collectors and investors. With a blend of hype, emerging talent, and new collectibles releases, the 2025 class is poised to impact the trading card market in ways reminiscent of iconic draft years. If you’re looking for the next big break in hockey cards, focusing on this upcoming draft could prove lucrative. Let’s dive deep into the names, trends, and strategies every NHL card enthusiast should have on their radar for 2025.

Key Takeaways:

  • Matthew Schaefer is the projected No. 1 pick with an exclusive Upper Deck deal making his rookie cards highly coveted.
  • Upper Deck Young Guns are the gold standard for NHL rookie cards, consistently outperforming other rookie issues in long-term value.
  • The 2025 draft class features deep talent including Michael Misa, Porter Martone, James Hagens, and Anton Frondell with investment potential.
  • Priority goes to early picks, but mid- and late-first-rounders like Leon Draisaitl and Nikita Kucherov show value exists beyond top ten.
  • Focus on professionally graded cards (PSA 10/BGS 10), limited editions, autographed versions, and track rookie season performance for price spikes.

Why the 2025 NHL Draft Matters for Card Collectors

Past NHL Drafts, such as those featuring Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, and Jack Hughes, saw instant surges in rookie card prices. The anticipation around the 2025 class is fueled not just by the projected on-ice talent but by increasing global interest in hockey cards, more sophisticated grading options, and rapid integration of digital platforms within the collectible space. Market data from the past three seasons show that high-end rookie cards—especially those with limited print runs or autos—have consistently outperformed more common issues. For insights on market dynamics, see our guide on how NHL 2025 draft trends reshape sports card values.

Matthew Schaefer: The Projected No. 1 Pick

Erie Otters blueliner Matthew Schaefer has generated headlines in both amateur hockey circles and the card-collecting community. His dynamic play, two-way reliability, and strong international resume make him the clear favorite to go No. 1 in 2025. What’s unique for collectors, however, is Schaefer’s exclusive agreement with Upper Deck. His earliest pre-draft cards—especially autographed or low-numbered parallels—are already being watched closely by investment-minded buyers. Should Schaefer have a successful rookie year or win early accolades like the Calder Trophy, demand for his cards could mirror the meteoric rises seen by previous No. 1s.

Collectors should look for Schaefer’s Young Guns rookie in Upper Deck Series 2 or flagship autographs, as these are typically the hobby gold standards.

Michael Misa: Dynamic Forward with Huge Upside

No draft class story is complete without a forward who flashes superstar potential. Michael Misa, excelling with the Saginaw Spirit, checks all the boxes: skating, hockey sense, and a scorer’s touch. He was granted exceptional status to enter the OHL at a young age—further enhancing his resume. Scouting reports regularly connect Misa to the likes of Mitch Marner and Jack Hughes, and excitement follows him into the draft. For collectors, his entry-level Upper Deck cards, Young Guns, and any numbered variant will likely command strong prices if he lives up to forecasts. Don’t overlook early OHL cards either—these often become niche collector favorites if a prospect’s star rises fast in the NHL.

Other Top Prospects with Card Investment Potential

While headliners like Schaefer and Misa dominate much of the buzz, savvy collectors know value hides in deeper draft picks as well. Here are some additional 2025 prospects worth watching:

  • Porter Martone (RW, Mississauga): A wing with elite offensive instincts, Martone’s ability to finish and his strong playmaking have analysts marking him as a future NHL regular. Card investors are watching for his pro debut.

  • James Hagens (C, Boston College): An American star with a high ceiling, Hagens brings IQ and vision to every shift. Transitioning from NCAA to NHL often yields unique collectible opportunities, as collegiate cards and NHL debuts generate different types of market demand.

  • Anton Frondell (C, Djurgårdens IF): Frondell’s international exposure gives his collectibles appeal in both North America and Europe, where interest in rookies and pre-NHL cards remains high.

  • Roger McQueen (C): At 6’6”, McQueen is one of the draft’s most physically intriguing prospects. If injuries are behind him, watch for his cards to command attention from those hunting the next “late bloomer” sensation.

Don’t forget that mid- and late-first-rounders often become surprise stars. Historic examples include players like Leon Draisaitl and Nikita Kucherov—each of whom saw their card values soar well after their draft years.

Trending Rookie Cards & Market Dynamics for 2025

New for 2025, several card manufacturers are introducing more limited releases, on-card autographs, and digital claim features. Upper Deck remains the dominant force, with Young Guns considered the must-have rookie for NHL collectors, but watch for SP Authentic, The Cup, and limited Panini cards as well. The market is also seeing a surge in digital collectibles and NFT-based hockey cards, though physical cards continue to hold the bulk of investment value, particularly those graded by PSA or Beckett. Keeping an eye on pre-draft and draft day promo releases may also give you an early edge.

Investment Tips for 2025 NHL Rookie Cards

  • Priority goes to early picks: Top selections historically see the fastest and highest appreciation in rookie card prices—especially when paired with strong rookie performances or media hype. Track real-time card market reactions on draft day.

  • Monitor exclusive deals and print runs: Limited edition cards, autograph cards, and those released under special partnerships (e.g., Upper Deck’s exclusive rookie signers) fetch premium prices and tend to hold value.

  • Favor flagship sets and keep an eye on inserts: While Upper Deck Young Guns are king, rare inserts and low-numbered parallels from flagship sets are often sleepers that gain value as secondary interest grows. Don’t overlook NHL 2025 draft sleeper picks for hidden gems.

  • Condition is king: Aim for cards in pristine condition. Submit cards for grading as soon as possible, keeping in mind PSA 10 and BGS 9.5/10 are the gold standards for max resale value.

  • Track media buzz and rookie season performance: A player’s rookie season highlights, such as breaking franchise records or participating in marquee events like the Winter Classic, can generate immediate demand and sharp price spikes.

  • Don’t ignore digital collectibles: While physical cards dominate, select digital rookie releases can become high-value collectibles, especially if tied to special events or limited-time promotions.

Looking to expand your sports card knowledge? Check out these related guides:

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Matthew Schaefer’s Upper Deck exclusive deal important for collectors?

Matthew Schaefer’s exclusive agreement with Upper Deck means his earliest pre-draft cards, autographed versions, and low-numbered parallels will have controlled supply and heightened demand. Upper Deck exclusives typically feature premium quality, on-card autographs, and special memorabilia cards. This scarcity combined with his status as projected No. 1 pick creates immediate investment appeal, similar to previous exclusive signings that saw rapid value appreciation.

What makes Young Guns rookie cards so valuable?

Upper Deck Young Guns are the gold standard for NHL rookie cards, consistently outperforming other rookie issues in long-term value. They’re featured in flagship Series 1 and Series 2 releases with distinctive design, limited print runs for top prospects, and strong collector demand. Young Guns of stars like Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, and Jack Hughes have become extremely valuable, making them the must-have rookie card for serious hockey collectors.

Should I focus only on first-round picks for rookie card investments?

No—while top picks offer the safest bets, many all-star value stories come from mid- and late-first-rounders or even second-round selections. Players like Leon Draisaitl and Nikita Kucherov were drafted outside the top 10 but their cards became extremely valuable. Diversify your portfolio with a mix of consensus top picks for stability and deeper selections with breakout potential for higher risk-reward opportunities.

How important is card condition for NHL rookie card investments?

Condition is critically important. Always aim for cards in pristine condition and submit high-value cards for professional grading through PSA or BGS as soon as possible. PSA 10 and BGS 9.5/10 grades command significant premiums—often 3-5x more than lower grades. For modern rookies, protecting cards immediately in sleeves and top-loaders preserves their condition and maximizes future resale value.

Conclusion

The 2025 NHL Draft will not only shape teams for years to come but also offers collectors and investors one of the best opportunities for rookie card investments in recent memory. With premium prospects like Matthew Schaefer, Michael Misa, and a deep pool of rising stars, now is the time to stay informed, watch the draft closely, and move quickly on early releases. Whether you’re building a long-term collection or seeking short-term ROI, pairing knowledge with sharp buying decisions will ensure you skate ahead in the red-hot hockey card market of 2025.