The Toronto Maple Leafs are heading into the 2025 NHL Draft with more questions than answers and no first-round pick to make things easier. After another early playoff exit, the team’s focus has quickly shifted to how they can reshape their future.
The Leafs won’t pick until late in the second round because they traded their first-round pick to Chicago in the Jake McCabe deal. That puts extra pressure on Toronto’s scouting department to find value in the later rounds.
Even with this setback, there’s rumblings that the Leafs could still walk away with a real gem — a highly skilled center from Sweden who seems like a great fit for the team.
Leafs Eye Swedish Center Theo Stockselius In 2025 NHL Draft
With the 61st overall pick, which they got from the Florida Panthers, the Leafs won’t have the luxury of a first-round selection. But Toronto’s scouting team has a history of finding hidden gems, and one name that’s quietly rising on their radar is Swedish center Theo Stockselius.
Stockselius is only 17 but has already made a name for himself in Sweden. He scored 51 points in 40 games for Djurgårdens IF, plus 16 points in nine playoff games. While the numbers are impressive, it’s his style of play that seems to fit what the Leafs are looking for.
In the fall, I said Theo Stockselius🇸🇪 was the most underrated player in the draft.
He’s now scored back-to-back hat-tricks in the J20 Nationell for Djurgården, including the playoff opener today.
Stock’s stock📈📈📈#2025NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/lc6ILJeTht
— WJCrankings (@WJCrankings) March 19, 2025
He’s a true two-way forward. Stockselius is reliable in his own end, quick to win back pucks, and smart at creating scoring chances. He battles along the boards, extends plays in the offensive zone, and doesn’t shy away from the dirty work. His speed, edgework, and agility stand out in transition, making him a real threat on the rush.
Toronto has always valued players who work hard on both ends of the ice, and Stockselius checks all those boxes. He’ll need to add some muscle to handle the grind of the NHL, but his game is built on a solid foundation. With time and development, he could grow into a middle-six forward who contributes in all situations.
Could Stockselius Be A Steal At No. 61?
In a year where every pick matters more than ever, Stockselius might be the perfect fit for the Leafs. He has the smarts and drive to play the style Toronto wants, and he’s only going to get better as he gets stronger and more experienced.
If Toronto picks him at No. 61, they’re not just adding depth—they could be getting a future difference-maker. Stockselius has the tools and attitude to thrive in the NHL’s fast-paced game, and he might become a key piece for the Leafs in the years to come.
