This could be a really good draft for the Nashville Predators, if they actually decide to make all of their picks.
The cupboard could be fully restocked if the Predators keep all nine of the draft picks they have in the 2025 NHL draft. Of those nine picks, they have six in the first three rounds, with three first-round picks, two 2nd round picks, and a third-round pick.
There are plenty of reasons to make all of the picks, even if they are tempting to deal. Here, we're going to break down the position groups where the most picks should be allocated.
Defensemen - 4 Picks
Defensemen are investments that you have to watch longer term. It is a harder position to develop. These players have to be able to be deployed in all three zones, and defense has to be an emphasis. Then in the modern NHL, these guys have to be able to chip in offensively. Forwards get to attack, attack, attack, and it is easier to jump into the league doing just that. The size and speed management is easier.
All of this is being stated to express that you need to take these players and set them on the back burner for development's sake. A first round pick, sure, fast track him, but these players need the time to develop so taking as many as you can will help in the long run.
Forwards - 3 Picks
Frankly, if I were the Nashville Predators GM, I'd take three centers and convert whoever is the worst in the faceoff circle in three years and make them a winger. You can never have too many centers. Dedicating a few picks here lets you grab a few different kinds of players.
Your goal scorer should be the highest pick taken here (hint hint Porter Martone) followed by a playmaker, and then you pick your heavy. The combinations can be mixed and matched to whatever specifications you'd like, but it would be hard to take too many forwards.
Goalies - 2 Picks
Here's the problem with the Predators. Juuse Saros plays so stinking much that it almost doesn't matter who the backup is, and getting a goalie meaningful NHL experience pretty much won't happen for at least 3 to 4 years.
Justus Annunen? No clue if he's any good. Matthew Murray played really well in the AHL this season, but he's already 27. Calling him a prospect feels wrong. Jakub Milota hasn't played pro yet, but he's undersized to start. Magnus Chorna will be 25 by the time the next season starts, and had his best AHL season to date, but only went 12-11-5. Then there's Konstantin Volkov, a 27-year-old KHL backup who is for some reason listed as a Preds prospect on Elite Prospects.
If you aren't ready to panic draft two goalies by now, then you might be dead. The Predators are in a position where they have to take one, and probably should take one high this draft.