These familiar names at the NHL Draft had fans doing double takes

Athleticism runs in the family as one of many genetic traits passed down from parents to children, and there's no denying that after several sons of former NHL players were selected in the 2025 NHL Draft.

From father to child, how much is nature and how much is nurture when it comes to developing hockey skills? Some of these players are very reminiscent of their parent's game, while others play an entirely different position. Here's a look at three of the NHL Draft prospects inspired by their fathers to pursure a pro career.

William Horcoff following in father Shawn's footsteps

William Horcoff, selected 24th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins, plays a very similar game to his father Shawn, former Edmonton Oilers captain. Shawn skated in over 1,000 NHL games for the Oilers, Stars, and Ducks, scoring 511 points along the way. As a gritty two-way center, he was dependable in the faceoff dot, on the penalty kill, and in the defensive zone.

William has emulated his father's game on the ice in many ways. Each of the Horcoffs has played a tough, competitive, versatile style that is driven by unwavering work ethic. William's play on the backcheck allows him to get the puck moving in the other direction by gaining possession back through boards battles or pressure on the puck carrier.

That's where the similarites end: Shawn played hockey at Michigan State University, while William skates for the heated rivals at University of Michigan. William tallied 10 points in 14 games for the Wolverines in his freshman season after joining the team halfway through the year. He will likely return to UMich next year, unless he has a standout training camp -- where he very well could compete for a spot on the Penguins roster.

Blake Vanek plays a different game than his father, Thomas

Blake, picked at No. 93 by the Ottawa Senators, has carved out a role for himself as a power forward that is tough to beat to the puck or steal possession once he gains it. But he has a strong offensive upside, putting up an impressive performance with Stillwater High in Minnesota for his senior year of high school. The 17-year-old picked up 22 goals and 53 points in 29 games, and most of those points came from being involved deep in the offensive zone.

His father Thomas was known more for his scoring prowess, recording two 40-goal outings and even skating in an All-Star Game in 2009. He was a longtime NHLer who skated for eight different teams during his 14-year career. The elder Vanek was well-respected around the league, gathering 789 points in 1,029 games played, the majority of which with the Buffalo Sabres.

Blake brings more of a toughness to his game than Thomas was known for, but Blake hasn't pigeonholed himself into a gritty role. Rather, he uses his 6'3", 204lb frame to be dominant with the puck especially down low round the net or in the slot. Vanek has committed to play for the WHL's Wenatchee Wild for the 2025-26 season.

How do Vernon Fiddler's skills as a forward translate for son Blake?

Blake Fiddler already has bragging rights over his father, Vernon: Blake was drafted 36th overall by the Seattle Kraken, where his dad was never drafted. Yet, the elder Fiddler nevertheless worked hard to make it to the NHL anyway, and he said that's the type of ethic he has instilled in his son.

"Obviously, I was never drafted and there are a couple of different things that go into that, but our motto at home is you roll up your sleeves and you try to get better every single day no matter what you’re feeling or what could happen," Vernon told NHL.com.

"Vern" was a forward who could be relied upon in all situations, whether it be the penalty kill or in the faceoff circle. He racked up 261 points in 877 games in the NHL, spread out between the Predators, Stars, Devils and Coyotes.

Blake, on the other hand, is a fast-skating defenseman with excellent instincts. His quick feet allow him to beat forwards to the puck or backpedal through his own zone efficiently, where he never leaves an opponent unmanned. His vision allows him to find the outlet pass to exit the zone, or even a stretch pass to spwark a rush for his team. Blake scored 33 points in 64 games with the WHL's Edmonton Oil Kings this season.

"Growing up, I pretty much lived the lifestyle, too. I was just a little version of [my dad]. I was constantly surrounded by it all and I think that helped me growing up. I know what it takes to make the NHL and what’s going to help get me there. "

Blake Fiddler, to NHL.com