The top prospects in hockey will hear their names called in the 2019 NHL Draft on Friday night. The opening segment of the two-day event includes the first two rounds spanning a total of 62 picks. The final five rounds will be held Saturday afternoon.
Jack Hughes, an American center with stellar all-around skills, projects as the No. 1 selection by the Devils after delivering on the hype with another strong season in the U.S. developmental program. He’s expected to be followed by Finnish winger Kaapo Kakko with the No. 2 pick, giving the Rangers a foundational piece up front.
The Blackhawks have one of the toughest decisions in the draft as the team that picks after those two. Defenseman Bowen Byram and centers Alex Turcotte, Trevor Zegras and Dylan Cozens appear among the strongest candidates. In recent weeks, it’s starting looking more like it’ll be Byram or Turcotte.
The Avalanche hold the No. 4 pick from the Senators as part of the Matt Duchene trade, followed by the Kings with the No. 5 pick. The Red Wings, Sabres, Oilers, Ducks and Canucks round out the top 10.
2019 NHL Draft, Rounds 1-2
Time: 7 p.m. CT
TV: NBCSN, NHL Network
Live stream: NBC Sports Live
