A big night in Hockeywood got even bigger as a pair of big movie names crashed the 2025 NHL Draft. Adam Sandler and Jerry Bruckheimer announced the respective first-round picks for the Boston Bruins and Seattle Kraken tonight at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Sandler was sporting the familiar Bruins jersey that his title character wears in Happy Gilmore, whose long-awaited sequel hits Netflix next month. Bruckheimer was representing the league’s newest franchise, the Seattle Kraken, of which is a part owner.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman introduced Sandler, who appeared on the big screen behind him. “My name is Happy Gilmore, how are you?” he said to a big cheer from the crowd. After announcing the Bruins’ selection of James Hagens, a center who played at Boston College, with the No. 7 overall pick, “Gilmore” added, “Way to go, homie!” After Hagens took the stage, Sandler did his character’s signature horsey ride on his hockey stick.
Coincidentally, the Kraken had the next pick, and Bettman introduced uber-producer Bruckheimer, whose F1 hits theaters around the world this weekend. “Hello, L.A., it’s a pleasure to be here,” the longtime hockey nut and Los Angeles resident said onstage. “It’s a thrill to be a part of this fantastic draft.” He then revealed winger James O’Brien as the pick for the Kraken, who will start their fifth NHL season in the fall. Bruckheimer famously organized L.A. hockey games with celebrity players, including one Tom Cruise.
Other celebrities who have announced first-round NHL picks thus far include NBA and TNT legend Charles Barkley (Philadelphia Flyers, No. 6), Goo Goo Dolls co-founders John Rzeznik and Robby Takac (Buffalo Sabres, No. 9), Mighty Ducks film franchise alums Joshua Jackson and Marguerite Moreau (Anaheim Ducks, No 10), Full House alum Dave Coulier (Detroit Red Wings, No. 13) and Entourage series regular Kevin Connelly (New York Islanders, No. 16).
ESPN is airing and ESPN+ is streaming the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft live from the Peacock Theater, which across the street from the Kings’ home at Crypto.com Arena. Rounds 2-7 will be held Saturday at the venue starting at 9 a.m. PT/noon ET.
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