After the NHL Draft Lottery on Monday, Adam Kimelman, NHL.com’s deputy managing editor, and Mike G., senior draft writer, Morreale project the possible outcomes of the first 16 picks in the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft. On Tuesday, the San Jose Sharks clinched the first position in the 2024 NHL Draft Lottery, granting them the coveted top pick in the forthcoming 2024 NHL Draft.
Both Adam Kimelman, deputy managing editor at NHL.com, and senior draft writer Mike G. Morreale concur that the Sharks intend to select Boston University center Macklin Celebrini with their top pick.
They also concur that Michigan State defenseman Artyom Levshunov, drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks at No. 2, will be chosen, and the Anaheim Ducks will choose defenseman Anton Silayev from Nizhny Novgorod in the Kontinental Hockey League at No. 3.
Their views vary commonly on what might occur after that.
The first round of the 2024 draft is scheduled to take place at Sphere in Las Vegas on June 28. Rounds 2-7 will be June 29.
The 16 teams that did not qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs participated in the lottery drawing for the first two picks. The remaining teams were ranked according to the NHL standings.
Selections 17-32 will be decided by the outcomes of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
1. San Jose Sharks
Kimelman — Macklin Celebrini, C, Boston University (NCAA): Celebrini, a 6-foot, 190-pound talent who is without a doubt the greatest available in the draft, is also among its hardest workers. Sharks general manager Mike Grier has already praised Celebrini’s dedication and performance both in practice and during games. Despite being the youngest player in NCAA hockey at just 17 years old, he showcased his prowess by outshining the competition, amassing an impressive 64 points (32 goals, 32 assists) in 38 games.
Morreale — Macklin Celebrini: He was flawless in his draft-eligible season and is a franchise talent in the making. Celebrini has become the youngest-ever recipient of the Hobey Baker Award, an accolade bestowed annually upon the top NCAA men’s hockey player. His exceptional skills make him a crucial cornerstone for any team, particularly one requiring elite two-way talent, especially at the center position.
2. Chicago Blackhawks
Kimelman — Artyom Levshunov, D, Michigan State (NCAA): After choosing franchise-changing center Connor Bedard with the first overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, the Blackhawks can now turn their attention to acquiring a game-changing defenseman. Levshunov emerges as a prime candidate post-Celebrini, possessing the size (6-2, 208) and skill set that propelled him to a noteworthy performance of 35 points (nine goals, 26 assists) in 38 games during his freshman year in college.
Morreale — Artyom Levshunov: Born in Belarus, Levshunov is a right-handed shot who was the third-youngest player in NCAA hockey. He ranked second among freshman defensemen and tied for 10th among all defensemen in scoring. The Blackhawks need a future cornerstone on defense, and Levshunov fits that role perfectly.
3. Anaheim Ducks
Kimelman — Anton Silayev, D, Nizhny Novgorod (RUS): The left-shot defenseman is one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft due to his impressive size (6-7, 211) and his developing offensive skills. The Ducks have accumulated several young, offensively-minded defensemen, including Tristan Luneau, Olen Zellweger, and Pavel Mintyukov. Silayev has the potential to be an outstanding complementary piece on a top defensive pair.
Morreale — Anton Silayev: He had 11 points (three goals, eight assists), 74 blocked shots, and 98 hits in 63 regular-season games in the KHL. Silayev, who played this season as a 17-year-old (he turned 18 on April 11), recorded the most points ever by an under-18 player in KHL history. Florida Panthers forward Vladimir Tarasenko is second (10 points for Novosibirsk in 2008-09).
4. Columbus Blue Jackets
Kimelman — Cayden Lindstrom, C, Medicine Hat (WHL): It was a bit of a lost season for Lindstrom because of injuries, but he still scored 27 goals in 32 games. After selecting Adam Fantilli (6-2, 194) with the No. 3 pick in 2023, the Blue Jackets could form a formidable 1-2 punch at center by adding Lindstrom (6-3, 210) in the near future.
Morreale — Ivan Demidov, RW, SKA St. Petersburg Jr. (RUS-JR): The 18-year-old left-handed shot is one of the most naturally skilled players in the 2024 draft class. Demidov (5-11, 181) possesses a high hockey IQ and adapts smoothly on the fly. He amassed 60 points (23 goals, 37 assists) in 30 regular-season games and added 28 points (11 goals, 17 assists) in 17 playoff games in Russia’s junior league.
5. Montreal Canadiens
Kimelman on Ivan Demidov: He dominated Russia’s junior league, displaying his dynamic offensive skills and exceptional skating. He will likely have the opportunity to test those skills next season. in the KHL. He’s under contract with SKA St. Petersburg through the 2024–25 campaign, so the Canadiens might benefit greatly from a little perseverance.
Morreale — Cayden Lindstrom: Despite missing thirty-six games in the regular season, he is still this draft’s best forward option. The 18-year-old made his return on March 29 after undergoing surgery to repair an upper-body injury. He scored 46 points (27 goals, 19 assists) in 32 regular-season games and added two points (one goal, one assist) with 17 shots on goal in four Western Hockey League playoff games.
6. Utah
Kimelman — Sam Dickinson, D, London (OHL): He can choose when to enter the play in the offensive zone because of his strong hockey IQ. His skating is strong enough to lead the breakout or find teammates with smart, accurate passes to ignite the rush. The No. 6 pick in the 2023 draft, Dmitriy Simashev (6-4, 198), has helped Utah assemble a plus-size defense corps, and Maveric Lamoureux (6-6, 196), the No. 29 pick of the 2022 NHL Draft. Dickinson (6-2, 199) would integrate well with that group.
Morreale — Zeev Buium, D, University of Denver (NCAA): The second-youngest player in NCAA men’s hockey led college defensemen and ranked fifth among all freshmen with 50 points (11 goals, 39 assists) in 42 games for the NCAA champions. The 18-year-old also contributed five points (three goals, two assists) and a tournament-best plus-11 rating in seven games, aiding the United States in winning the gold medal at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship.
7. Ottawa Senators
Kimelman — Zeev Buium: With their first first-round pick since 2021, the Senators select Buium, known for his composed demeanor complementing his exceptional skill set. As a left-handed shooter, he demonstrates remarkable skating ability and maintains composure even against older opponents on significant stages like the NCAA Tournament or the 2024 WJC.
Morreale — Zayne Parekh, D, Saginaw (OHL): He set records for Saginaw by scoring 33 goals and accumulating 96 points as a defenseman in 66 regular-season games. The 18-year-old right-handed shooter also accumulated 34 power-play points (10 goals, 24 assists) and two short-handed goals. Parekh (6 feet, 179 pounds) netted 21 goals as a rookie last season, the highest ever by a 16-year-old Ontario Hockey League defenseman.
8. Seattle Kraken
Kimelman — Carter Yakemchuk, D, Calgary (WHL): With 30 goals this season, Yakemchuk lead all WHL defenseman. His skill with the puck and his skating allow him to locate openings and set up plays in the attacking zone. Additionally, the right-handed shooter is of NHL caliber at 6-3 and 201 pounds. The Kraken have excelled in discovering young forward prospects who could serve as future cornerstones. They would get a huge boost in the back end if they added Yakemchuk.
Morreale — Sam Dickinson: A powerful and elusive skater capable of playing big minutes and producing offensively, Dickinson was the quarterback on London’s OHL-best power play (32.6 percent) and had 28 power-play points (11 goals, 17 assists). He finished second in the on-ice testing at the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on Jan. 23, Ranked second in transition ability and first in a 30-meter forward and 30-meter backward skate with the puck.
9. Calgary Flames
Kimelman — Berkly Catton, C, Spokane (WHL): Catton (5-10, 170) finished fourth in the WHL this season with 116 points (54 goals, 62 assists) with to his elite offensive skill set and pull-away speed. The Flames have made strides in getting younger and more athletic, with forwards Connor Zary and Matt Coronato assuming larger roles, and Jakob Pelletier and Samuel Honzek, the No. 16 pick of the 2023 draft, not far behind. Catton could emerge as the best and most skilled of the group if he’s chosen.
Morreale on Tij Iginla, C, Kelowna (WHL): The 17-year-old son of Hockey Hall of Fame forward Jarome Iginla showcases dynamic offensive talent, highlighted by his speed, agility, and natural instincts. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 182 pounds, Iginla led Kelowna with 47 goals and ranked second with 84 points, including 11 power-play goals, in 64 regular-season games. Additionally, he contributed 12 points (six goals, six assists) in seven games for gold medal-winning Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Under-18 Championship.
10. New Jersey Devils
Kimelman — Konsta Helenius, C, Jukurit (FIN): Helenius enhances his already impressive offensive skills with a surprising strength on the puck, especially considering his size (5-11, 180). He combines the offensive prowess of Jack Hughes with the determination and competitiveness of Nico Hischier, making him a promising prospect. Moreover, he has demonstrated his ability to make an impact against older opponents, finishing with 36 points (14 goals, 22 assists) in 51 games in Liiga, the top professional league in Finland.
Morreale — Berkly Catton: He exhibits a hard-driving style, showing relentless pursuit of the puck and a competitive spirit that cannot be overlooked. At just 18 years old, he achieved a remarkable feat, becoming only the third WHL player since 2000 to amass at least 115 points in his NHL draft season, joining Bedard, who scored 143 points in the 2022-23 season, and Nic Petan, who scored 120 points in the 2012-13 season. Additionally, Catton boasted a face-off win rate of 53.4%, led the WHL with seven short-handed goals, and ranked third on Spokane with 30 power-play points (13 goals, 17 assists).
11. Buffalo Sabres
Kimelman — Cole Eiserman, LW, USA U-18 (NTDP): Eiserman possesses the best shot in the draft, having scored 58 goals in 57 games this season, bringing his total to 127 goals… are the most by any player in USA Hockey National Team Development Program history. But is he just a sensational shot? Scouts appear divided on this matter. Some think he has the potential to refine his game, enhance his offensive instincts, and evolve into a more formidable playmaker. He will spend at least one season at Boston University aiming to broaden his skill set. If successful, Eiserman (6-foot, 195) could emerge as one of the top players in the 2024 draft class.
Morreale — Konsta Helenius: He possesses skill, speed, and a strong competitive spirit. With 36 points, the right-handed shooter tied for fourth place among under-18 players in a Liiga season. In addition, he averaged 16:57 of ice time in 51 games, went 50.2 percent in face-offs, and scored five goals during the power play.
12. Philadelphia Flyers
Kimelman — Tij Iginla: The Flyers require more skill, especially at center, after trading forward Cutter Gauthier, the No. 5 pick in the 2022 draft, to the Anaheim Ducks for defenseman Jamie Drysdale on Jan. 8. Iginla fits the bill on both fronts. While he may not have the electrifying skill that dazzles fans, his playmaking ability, vision, and hockey sense make him a standout player.
Morreale — Carter Yakemchuk: With an excellent reach, positional soundness, and knowledge of where to move to make himself available, the 18-year-old excels in board fights. The right-handed shooter ranked fifth among WHL defensemen with 71 points in 66 regular-season games.
13. Minnesota Wild
Kimelman — Zayne Parekh: Parekh is a potent offensive player who plays similar to Pittsburgh Penguins forward Erik Karlsson. He needs to increase his strength to compete at the NHL level, but if he can achieve that, Parekh possesses the tools to become an elite playmaker.
Morreale — Adam Jiricek, D, Plzen (CZE): Jiricek (6-2, 182) suffered a season-ending injury to his right knee while representing Czechia in the first game of the 2024 WJC on Dec. 26. The right-handed shooter tallied one assist in 19 games in the Czech Extraliga, the premier professional league in the Czech Republic, and is the younger brother of Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman David Jiricek.
14. San Jose Sharks (from Pittsburgh Penguins)
Kimelman — Beckett Sennecke, RW, Oshawa (OHL): Following the selection of a dynamic center in Celebrini, the Sharks opt for a big (6-2, 177), skilled option to complement him. Sennecke boasts strong skating abilities and excels at retrieving pucks from congested areas to create scoring opportunities. While it may take time for Sennecke to develop physically, he adds to the Sharks’ expanding pool of high-skill forward prospects, which includes Will Smith, William Eklund, Quentin Musty, and Filip Bystedt.
Morreale — Cole Eiserman: He doesn’t hesitate to utilize his powerful shot, a significant asset, every shift from any position in the offensive zone. The 17-year-old, who spent two seasons alongside Celebrini at Shattuck-St. This season, Mary’s Prep in Minnesota led the NTDP Under-18 team in both goals and power-play goals, scoring 25 in total.
15. Detroit Red Wings
Kimelman — Michael Hage, C, Chicago (USHL): Hage (6-foot, 187) plays with a physical edge and impressed with his ability to take over games late in the season. He ranked fourth in the United States Hockey League with 75 points (34 goals, 42 assists) in 54 games, notably tallying 27 points (10 goals, 17 assists) in his last 14 games. The Red Wings will have the opportunity to closely monitor Hage’s progress when he begins his collegiate career at the University of Michigan in the fall.
Morreale — Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW, Mora (SWE-2): Hailing from Norway, Brandsegg-Nygard (6-1, 198) competes in Allsvenskan, Sweden’s second division. He is recognized as a hard-working two-way player with excellent first-step quickness, decision-making, and vision. The 18-year-old recorded 18 points (eight goals, 10 assists) in 41 regular-season games and added 10 points (four goals, six assists) in 12 playoff games. He also tied for the Norway lead with five points (three goals, two assists), and averaged 17:22 of ice time in five games at the 2024 WJC.
16. St. Louis Blues
Kimelman — Michael Brandsegg-Nygard: The Blues go back to Sweden after taking three first-round picks from the country at the 2023 draft. Brandsegg-Nygard is an excellent skater who excels in forechecking and can generate offensive opportunities from low in the offensive zone, particularly between the dots. If selected in the first round of the NHL draft, he would become the first player born in Norway to achieve this milestone.
Morreale — Michael Hage: He’s considered a two-way player with a lot of creativity. After ranking fourth in the USHL in points and sixth in goals, he contributed four points (two goals, two assists) in two USHL playoff games. Hage is the type of player who can propel a team into position when needed, thanks to his knack for creating scoring opportunities.
