As the lottery machine spit out its numbers and the deputy commissioner flipped the cards, the city of Chicago collectively held its breath.
After one of the worst seasons in Blackhawks history, which saw the team fail to reach 60 points, Chicago has been awarded the first overall pick.
The team, after a late-season push, finished with the third-worst record in the NHL, earning them the third-highest chance at the first overall pick. That spot in the standings also ensured that the Blackhawks would pick no lower than fifth overall.
The lottery was remarkably straightforward, as the first change in the standings was when the Blue Jackets fell from second to third, taking the Blackhawks’ spot. The Ducks then slid to second, giving the Blackhawks the top pick.
The Blackhawks now have the right to take the consensus best prospect overall, Connor Bedard. Bedard is one of the best prospects to ever come out and has drawn comparisons to the likes of Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid.
Bedard will be able to come in and likely start day one, leading the charge as the team looks to rebuild and get back into contention. His leadership qualities coupled with his on-ice talent will help lead a young prospect system that is widely regarded as one of the best in the NHL. His highlight reel is nearly limitless, and he has all the tools any GM or head coach could ask for.
The 2023 Draft will represent the second time in the club’s illustrious history that they have the first overall pick. The first time was a pick that no Chicago sports fan could ever forget, as it yielded Patrick Kane, who was arguably the greatest Blackhawk of all time before his departure at the trade deadline last season.
Despite the virtual guarantee that Connor Bedard will be headed to Chicago, the Blackhawks will get the opportunity to make their actual selection on Wednesday, June 28, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. The Blackhawks will make an additional selection that night, as they’ll have either the 19th or 20th overall pick thanks to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Monday was the most exciting night Blackhawks fans have had in a while, and things could not have gone better. The team now will be able to select the leader of its rebuild. Perhaps he can even be their best first-overall pick ever, surpassing his predecessor Patrick Kane.
HI
Amazingly good luck in the draft. Bedard will need help. Maybe Kaner would want to come back for a year or two to skate with the kid?
Nowhere but up from here, Blackhawks back to being relevant in a hurry with this kid in the mix. Thank you lottery gods!!
His leadership qualities coupled with his on-ice talent will help lead a young prospect system that is widely regarded as one of the best in the NHL.