By Sam Cosentino
For several years leading up to 2022, starting in 2018, the top pick in the NHL Draft seemed almost a foregone conclusion, irrespective of the lottery winner. Players like Rasmus Dahlin, Jack Hughes, Alexis Lafreniere, and Owen Power were widely considered the undisputed first overall selections.
However, the 2022 draft broke this pattern. For much of that year, forward Shane Wright was projected as the first pick, but opinions shifted closer to the draft date. On draft day itself, the Montreal Canadiens surprised many by selecting winger Juraj Slafkovsky instead. Wright ultimately wasn`t chosen until the fourth overall spot by Seattle.
Last year, the draft lottery followed expectations as the San Jose Sharks, holding the highest probability, secured the first pick and selected Macklin Celebrini. This year, however, saw significant movement: the New York Islanders made a dramatic jump of 10 positions to seize the top selection, and the Utah team also climbed 10 spots, from 14th to 4th, creating a notable shift in the draft standings.
Regarding potential top prospects, defenseman Matthew Schaefer from the OHL`s Erie Otters is a leading contender for the first overall spot, despite his season being impacted by injuries. He faces strong competition. Michael Misa, who excelled for the OHL`s Saginaw Spirit with 62 goals and 134 points after switching from wing to center, is also a top candidate. James Hagens, who was projected first overall last year, is still highly ranked. As a freshman at Boston College, he maintained a point-per-game pace as one of the youngest NCAA players, although his size is noted as slightly below average. Prospects like Anton Frondell and Caleb Desnoyers are also expected to be considered, indicating that the race for the first pick involves multiple talented players.
Following the lottery results announced tonight, here is our initial mock draft considering the new order.
Tristan Blackwood