Behm & Lafreniere Selected in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft

Image Credit: John Hill

For the 14th year in a row, a Kamloops Blazer has been drafted to the NHL — and this time, it’s a double dose of Blazer pride. Forwards Nathan Behm and Tommy Lafreniere were both selected in the 2025 NHL Draft, further solidifying Kamloops as one of the premier development hubs in junior hockey.

Nathan Behm, a dynamic right-shot winger, was selected 66th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks. In his second season with the Blazers, Behm emerged as a top offensive weapon, posting 31 goals and 35 assists for 66 points in 59 games. His combination of speed, skill, and finishing touch made him a standout all year, and his draft selection comes as no surprise to anyone who watched his breakout campaign.

Joining him in the third round was Tommy Lafreniere, taken 83rd overall by the Edmonton Oilers. The smooth-skating forward finished the season with 24 goals and 32 assists for 56 points in 68 games, showcasing strong offensive instincts and dependable play on both ends of the ice. Lafreniere was a consistent contributor throughout the year and showed flashes of high-end playmaking that clearly caught the attention of NHL scouts.

Their selections mark a major milestone not just for the players, but for the city of Kamloops and the Blazers organization. With both players stepping into NHL systems, the club’s remarkable draft streak continues — now 14 years running — a testament to the program’s ability to prepare players for the next level.

As Behm and Lafreniere take their first steps toward pro hockey, the Kamloops community will be watching proudly. Two more Blazers, two more names on the NHL path, and one more reminder that the road to the NHL often runs through Kamloops.