From Happy Gilmore’s comeback to F1’s global release, Hockey meets Hollywood as Adam Sandler and Jerry Bruckheimer announce top NHL Draft picks for Bruins and Kraken in Los Angeles.
In a night that blended the glitz of Hollywood with the grit of ice hockey, actors and producers stole the spotlight at the 2025 NHL Draft held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Comedian and actor Adam Sandler, donning his iconic Happy Gilmore Bruins jersey, and mega-producer Jerry Bruckheimer, representing the Seattle Kraken, took to the stage to announce their respective teams’ first-round picks. The surprise appearances added star power to an already buzzing event, just as Sandler’s Happy Gilmore sequel is set to hit Netflix and Bruckheimer’s F1 races into theaters worldwide.
It was a big night for Hockey — and an even bigger one for “Hockeywood” — as two of entertainment’s most recognizable figures made surprise appearances at the 2025 NHL Draft. Adam Sandler and Jerry Bruckheimer each took the stage at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles on Friday night to announce first-round draft picks for the Boston Bruins and Seattle Kraken, respectively.
Sandler appeared in full Happy Gilmore mode, wearing the Bruins jersey made famous by his beloved title character from the 1996 film. The crowd erupted in cheers as NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman introduced Sandler on the big screen. “My name is Happy Gilmore, how are you?” Sandler quipped, before announcing that the Bruins selected James Hagens, a standout center from Boston College, as the No. 7 overall pick. Staying in character, Sandler gave Hagens a hearty “Way to go, homie!” and even pulled out his trademark horsey ride on a hockey stick — to roaring applause.
Just moments later, it was Jerry Bruckheimer’s turn. Representing the Seattle Kraken — of which he is a minority owner — Bruckheimer walked onto the stage, beaming with excitement. “Hello, L.A., it’s a pleasure to be here,” he said. “It’s a thrill to be a part of this fantastic draft.” The Hollywood power producer, currently making waves with his new film F1 releasing this weekend, then announced winger James O’Brien as the Kraken’s first-round choice at No. 8 overall. Bruckheimer’s connection to the NHL runs deep — he’s long been an advocate for the sport and is known for organizing celebrity hockey games in L.A., with participants including Tom Cruise.
The intersection of celebrity and sport continued throughout the night. Charles Barkley announced the Philadelphia Flyers’ pick at No. 6, while Goo Goo Dolls founders John Rzeznik and Robby Takac took the mic for the Buffalo Sabres at No. 9. Mighty Ducks stars Joshua Jackson and Marguerite Moreau represented the Anaheim Ducks at No. 10, while Dave Coulier of Full House fame announced for the Detroit Red Wings at No. 13. Entourage actor Kevin Connolly rounded out the star-studded lineup by presenting the New York Islanders’ No. 16 pick.
The first round of the draft aired live on ESPN and streamed on ESPN+ from the Peacock Theater — just steps away from the Los Angeles Kings’ home ice at Crypto.com Arena. Rounds 2 through 7 of the NHL Draft will continue Saturday morning, beginning at 9 a.m. PT / noon ET.
From the iconic echo of Happy Gilmore to the high-octane buzz around F1, the 2025 NHL Draft delivered more than just future hockey stars—it offered a show-stopping blend of sports and showbiz. With Adam Sandler and Jerry Bruckheimer leading the celebrity lineup, this year’s draft proved that in Los Angeles, even hockey can have a red carpet moment.