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NHL Draft 2023

When and Where is the NHL Draft?

The 2023 NHL Draft will be held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee on Wednesday, June 28 and Thursday, June 29. The first round will be held on Wednesday, June 28 at 7 pm CT, with rounds 2-7 being held on Thursday, June 29.

Who is Expected to be Drafted First Overall?

Connor Bedard, a center from the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League, is widely expected to be selected first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. Bedard is considered one of the most highly touted prospects in recent years, and he has been compared to Sidney Crosby and Patrick Kane. He led the WHL in scoring during the 2022-23 season, with 51 goals and 104 assists in 62 games.

Other players who could be in the mix for the first overall pick include Adam Fantilli, a center from the University of Michigan, and Matvei Michkov, a winger from SKA St. Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League.

What Teams Have the Best Chance at Landing Bedard?

The Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Anaheim Ducks all have a good chance at landing Bedard, as they are the three worst teams in the NHL this season. The Blackhawks have the most ping-pong balls in the lottery, so they have the best chance of winning the first overall pick. However, the Blue Jackets and Ducks both have a good chance of moving up in the lottery and selecting Bedard.