The United States Hockey League began its two-day draft process Monday, starting with Phase I selections focused on players born in 2009. The draft provides teams a pathway to reload rosters and build for future seasons.
Phase I includes 15 rounds and is limited to players in the 2009 birth year. This phase focuses on identifying younger talent typically a year or two away from playing in the league. The USHL Phase 1 Draft start time was scheduled for 6 p.m. EDT.
Following Phase I, Phase II will take place Tuesday starting at 11 a.m. EDT. This phase continues until every team has filled its organizational roster and allows teams to address more immediate needs for the upcoming season. The USHL Phase I And Phase II Draft Set For May 5 and 6 precedes the Clark Cup Final, set to begin May 9.
The USHL Draft 2025 is a key event for clubs like the Dubuque Fighting Saints, who anticipate significant roster turnover. The Saints reached the Eastern Conference Final and expect roughly half of their squad from the past season to depart.
Dubuque could potentially return 11 players, including four third-year individuals. A logjam of rosters at the collegiate level is increasing the number of players remaining in the USHL.
Dubuque sends 13 players to NCAA programs in the fall, creating holes the team must fill through the draft process.
The league expanded Phase I this season from 10 to 15 rounds. This move allows teams opportunities to build relationships with more players in the 16-year-old age range.
Omaha holds the No. 1 overall pick in the draft after finishing last overall during the recent season. Team USA does not participate in the draft. Dubuque drafts 13th in each round and has six picks in the first four rounds of both drafts, including three fourth-round selections in each phase.
“We’re always looking for the best players available — regardless of position — who fit our mold,” said Trevor Edwards, Dubuque's general manager. “We’re looking for kids who can make plays, have high hockey IQs, love hockey and love getting better.”
