Blackhawks to Pick Third in 2025 NHL Draft

The Chicago Blackhawks, following a disappointing 2024-25 season with the second-worst record in the Western Conference, will select third overall in the upcoming NHL Draft after falling in the draft lottery. The New York Islanders won the lottery and the top pick, while San Jose will pick second. General manager Kyle Davidson remains optimistic, noting that the third pick will bolster a promising prospect pool featuring Calder Trophy winner Connor Bedard and defenseman Artyom Levshunov. NHL insiders recommend that the Blackhawks trade veteran players to provide more opportunities for young defensemen such as Levshunov, Kevin Korchinski, and Sam Rinzel. This offseason is considered pivotal for shaping the franchise's long-term trajectory through both the draft and potential trades. The NHL’s live lottery process has been highlighted as a model for transparency and preventing conspiracy theories about draft rigging.