The NHL released their official draft lottery odds today, giving the worst team in the league an 18.5% chance at selecting first overall in June. Rasmus Dahlin—the expected prize of the top spot—is a franchise-changing talent, and likely able to step right into the NHL next season and make a difference.
Behind him there are exceptional talents, but there is no mistake that the first pick is worth quite a bit more than second or third. With that in mind, front offices in cities across the league are hoping that the odds land in their favor when the season ends.
Currently, the Buffalo Sabres sit in last place with 60 points, but they have Casey Mittelstadt debuting and could catch several other teams before the season is finished. Arizona, Ottawa and Vancouver are all still within reach, while the Red Wings and Canadiens are long-shots.
Who do you think will end up with the best odds in the lottery, and will they actually win it? Make sure to leave a comment below explaining who you think will be picking first overall in June.
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Oilers, because NHL
Detroit.
How can Middlestadt debut tonight if the Sabres aren’t even playing.