An average Monday night in Chicago turned into cause for celebration for Chicago Blackhawks fans.
For the second time in franchise history, the Blackhawks Monday won the NHL Draft lottery, giving them the No. 1 overall pick in 2023. That means they’ve earned the right to select Connor Bedard, 17, who’s arguably the best draft-eligible prospect this year.
Statistically speaking, the Blackhawks had the third-highest odds to land the first pick at 11.5 percent, behind Anaheim (25.5) and Columbus (13.5).
This is the second time in franchise history the Blackhawks will draft first overall. The only other time was 2007, when Chicago selected Patrick Kane, who after 16 seasons and three Stanley Cup victories with the team was traded to the New York Rangers earlier this month.
The consensus No. 1 overall selection this year is Connor Bedard, who could change life for the Blackhawks. He is a generational talent and had a historic season in the Western Hockey League, where he racked up 143 points (71 goals, 72 assists) in 57 regular-season games and 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) in seven postseason contests.
According to reports, the Blackhawks sold $1.9 million in season tickets within the first hour of landing the No. 1 overall pick.
