The 2026 NHL Draft Lottery is set for Tuesday in Secaucus, N.J., with teams aiming for a high draft pick to help secure their future. The Vancouver Canucks, having had a difficult season, are looking for their first-ever first overall selection, backed by an 18.5% chance. Alternatively, teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and New York Rangers have their eyes on upward mobility thanks to significant odds in the draw. The lottery involves two four-ball draws for the first and second overall picks, with specific combinations assigned to each team based on their season standings.

By the Numbers
  • Vancouver Canucks: 18.5% chance to win first overall pick.
  • Chicago Blackhawks: 13.5% chance to win first overall pick.
  • New York Rangers: 11.5% chance to win first overall pick.
  • Total number of possible combinations in the lottery: 1,001.
State of Play
  • The lottery is live on Sportsnet at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.
  • Canucks have a 25.5% chance to secure the first overall pick considering the lottery format.
  • Toronto Maple Leafs risk losing their top-five pick due to a trade with Boston.
  • St. Louis Blues have two picks, one from a trade with Detroit.
What's Next

The lottery results will determine the order of the first 16 picks, with the remaining picks based on playoff outcomes. Teams are on edge as they hope for favorable results, especially Vancouver and Detroit. Following the lottery, focus will shift to the potential top draft picks like Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg who are in contention for the first overall selection.

Bottom Line

The draft lottery could reshape team trajectories, particularly for the Canucks who are desperate for a turnaround. Lottery luck could prove pivotal in enhancing competitiveness in the future, making it a critical night for several franchises.