William Horcoff was one of several players with notable hockey connections selected in the 2025 draft. Among them was Arizona State University center Cullen Potter, selected in the first round (No. 32) by the Calgary Flames. He is the son of U.S. Hockey Hall of Famer Jenny Potter.

Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas was wheeling and dealing during the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft. They entered the night with the 11th and 12th picks in the first round. After making their selection at 11,

The Pittsburgh Penguins traded up from No. 31 to No. 24 to select rising Wolverines sophomore forward Will Horcoff on Friday. Michigan has had at least one player or incoming recruit selected in the first round in nine consecutive drafts.