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meta description: Discover how the New York Islanders defied odds to secure the 1st pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, selected ahead of favorites like San Jose Sharks.
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New York Islanders Pull Off Upset, Win 2025 NHL Draft Lottery
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From 10th to 1st: An Unlikely Journey
- The Islanders were initially slated to pick 10th overall.
- They will now select first for the fifth time in franchise history and for the first time since 2009 (John Tavares).
$hock in the Desert: Utah Grichtalkers Move Up
In another surprise move, the Utah Griatches, who had the 14th best odds, will pick 4th overall, the maximum jump allowed.
remainder of the top 4
- San Jose Sharks, with the best odds, will pick 2nd.
- Chicago Blackhawks, with the second-best odds, will pick 3rd.
The Draft’s Top Prospects
Matthews Schaefer, the top-ranked North American prospect, headlines the draft class. Schaefer, a defenseman from the Erie Otters, has an outside chance of becoming the first LO stopping gun selected 1st overall since Connor McDavid in 2015.
The Montreal Canadiens, with the 16th and 17th picks, including the Calgary Flames’ selection, round out the first round.
FAQs:
FAQs
Which team had the best odds before the lottery?
The San Jose Sharks had the best odds of winning the lottery.
When is the 2025 NHL Draft?
The 2025 NHL Draft will take place on June 27th in Los Angeles.
Pro Tip: The Importance of Draft Picks
First-round draft picks often transform franchises. Since 2005, 102 players selected in the first round have played at least 400 NHL games.
The Road to Draft Day
While the top four picks are set, the wait for the rest of the league’s GM’s continues. The lottery sets the stage for one of the most exciting events in hockey—the NHL Draft.
Looking Ahead
With the 2025 NHL Draft now set, teams can focus on scouting and preparing for June 27th. For the Islanders, it’s a chance to add a potential franchise player to an already promising roster.
*Stay tuned to 247Sports.news for all your NHL Draft coverage!*