LA Kings deliver fan-first moment at 2025 NHL Draft by letting teen fan announce a pick
LA Kings make fan dream come true at 2025 NHL Draft (Image via: Getty Images)
The 2025 NHL Draft took on a new format, but the Los Angeles Kings made sure the energy didn't fade. While most teams worked behind closed doors, the Kings created a fan-first moment that stole the spotlight by letting a 17-year-old supporter announce one of their official draft picks live on stage.
2025
NHL Draft
goes virtual, but
LA Kings
make a teen fan's dream come true
Despite concerns surrounding the NHL's decision to bring back a decentralized draft format reminiscent of the COVID-19 era, the Los Angeles Kings made it personal. With over 3,000 fans in attendance and thousands watching on TV and online, the league leaned heavily on high-end cameras and advanced technology to deliver the event. Still, many feared the lack of a traditional draft stage would drain the experience of its usual excitement.
That's when the Kings did something extraordinary.
In a post on X, the LA Kings shared a screenshot of a fan interaction captioned, 'Always shoot your shot.' The post featured 17-year-old fan Jeremy Roth, who commented that he could hype up the crowd better than NHL Central Scouting Director Dan Marr. The Kings noticed the comment and turned it into a real opportunity during the 2025 NHL Draft.
LA Kings let 17-year-old fan announce
Will Sharpe
as 2025 Draft pick
The Kings didn't just respond, they invited Roth to join NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly during the draft. From the upper deck, Roth got the crowd chanting 'Go Kings Go' before taking the mic to make it official:
'With the 24th pick of the 7th round of the 2025 NHL Draft, the Los Angeles Kings select defenseman Will Sharpe from the Kelowna Rockets in the Western Hockey League.'
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This viral moment showcased how NHL teams can still create meaningful fan experiences even in a remote setting. As the league moves further into a tech-driven era, the Kings' move is a reminder of the emotional heart that drives hockey culture. It's these small but powerful gestures that turn casual supporters into lifelong fans.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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