NAHL Holds Inaugural Futures Draft for Young Hockey Talent

FRISCO, Texas — The North American Hockey League (NAHL) completed its inaugural Futures Draft on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. This event introduced 68 talented young players, born in 2009, to the NAHL’s development model.

Each of the league’s 34 teams selected two players in a two-round draft. Teams chose in reverse order of the 2024-25 regular season standings. This marks an important step in identifying and nurturing future NCAA hockey talent.

The drafted players will be added to their team’s USA Hockey Affiliate Player List for the 2025-26 season. This status allows them to compete in up to 10 NAHL games while still playing at the midget, high school, or prep school level.

“We’re thrilled with how the first Futures Draft came together and excited to welcome these young players to the NAHL,” said NAHL Commissioner Mark Frankenfeld. “We look forward to working with these players as they grow and prepare for NCAA hockey.”

Drafted players will retain their rights with their NAHL team until March 10, 2026. Players not tendered or rostered after this date will become free agents, eligible to sign with any NAHL team.

This Futures Draft is part of the NAHL’s ongoing commitment to player development, advancement, and exposure. With hundreds of NCAA commitments each season, the league continues to be a leader in advancing players to college hockey.

The results of the draft are listed at the bottom of this release, showcasing both rounds of selections made by each team.