As our 2025 NHL draft class coverage continues, the New York Rangers may not have their first-round pick. That is the caveat I will be forced to include in every single one of these prospect profiles, but we're moving on to the next member of this draft class. Today, that is Toronto, Ontario native Jake O'Brien. No relation to the Utah Hockey Club's forward, Jake O'Brien is a rather intriguing prospect in this draft class.
At 6'2, 170 lbs, he's tall but thin. That's not the size of an NHL player, meaning he's not NHL-ready and will need time to develop into his frame. Given that the time he'll need could take the Rangers beyond their competitive window, there are reasons Blueshirts fans could be skeptical of drafting prospects like O'Brien, but that shouldn't make fans think less of this player. He has an incredible talent level, which is reflected in his production levels.
With the Brampton Bulldogs this season, O'Brien has scored 32 goals and 66 assists for 98 points in 66 games. That is a dynamic draft year for the left-shot centerman. While there will be issues regarding his physical growth and development, there is little denying that this man can put the puck in the net or set up his teammates to get the puck past a goaltender. It's a good sign for whoever drafts him.
Experts are divided on where the Torontonion could be drafted. He is projected anywhere from ninth overall to fifteenth, with some projecting he could slide late into round one. I think that is unlikely, given the draft year he just enjoyed; his high stock will get someone to take a chance on him, but who that is will be a significant factor. He has talent, and someone will want to have this player in the future.