Adam Sandler and Jerry Bruckheimer Crash NHL Draft 2025 with Hollywood Flair
The NHL Draft 2025 transformed into “Hockeywood” as Adam Sandler and Jerry Bruckheimer brought movie star charisma to the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Making their debut as first-round draft announcers, the duo added star power, humor, and a few unforgettable moments to an already electrifying night for the league.
Happy Gilmore Returns in Full Force
Introduced by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Sandler appeared on the big screen behind the stage in full Happy Gilmore mode. “My name is Happy Gilmore, how are you?” he asked, igniting cheers from the packed house. Dressed in a Bruins jersey identical to the one worn in the beloved sports comedy, Sandler announced Boston’s No. 7 overall pick, James Hagens, a standout center from Boston College.
After Hagens joined the stage, Sandler broke into his signature horsey ride on a hockey stick, a nostalgic nod to his 1996 film. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as a sequel to Happy Gilmore is set to hit Netflix next month. The crowd’s reaction proved Sandler’s comedic timing and fan appeal still dominate nearly three decades after the original film.
Jerry Bruckheimer Represents the Kraken
Hot on Sandler’s heels, Bruckheimer stepped up to announce the Seattle Kraken’s pick at No. 8, James O’Brien, a promising winger from a local university. The producer of blockbuster hits and the upcoming racing epic F1, Bruckheimer has deep ties to hockey, not just as a team co-owner, but also as a longtime L.A. resident who once hosted celebrity hockey games featuring stars like Tom Cruise.
“Hello, L.A., it’s a pleasure to be here,” Bruckheimer said. “It’s a thrill to be a part of this fantastic draft.” The Kraken are entering their fifth NHL season in the fall, and O’Brien represents a new wave of talent with high expectations.
A Star-Studded Draft Night
The NHL pulled out all the stops for this year’s draft. Other celebrity presenters included NBA legend Charles Barkley (Philadelphia Flyers), Goo Goo Dolls members John Rzeznik and Robby Takac (Buffalo Sabres), Mighty Ducks stars Joshua Jackson and Marguerite Moreau (Anaheim Ducks), Full House alum Dave Coulier (Detroit Red Wings), and Entourage actor Kevin Connelly (New York Islanders).
Held at the Peacock Theater, directly across from Crypto.com Arena, home of the L.A. Kings, the event was broadcast live on ESPN and streamed on ESPN+. Rounds 2 through 7 will continue Saturday morning, starting at 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET.
The NHL Draft Gets the Hollywood Treatment
The 2025 NHL Draft was more than a league milestone, it was a strategic blending of sports and pop culture. The presence of stars like Sandler and Bruckheimer shows the NHL’s commitment to evolving its brand and expanding its reach. While the future of James Hagens and James O’Brien will play out on the ice, the league has already scored a win in media exposure and fan engagement.
Source: Deadline
