2024 Draft Lottery: Macklin Celebrini

Among the players in the spotlight is Macklin Celebrini, the highly touted prospect projected to be the No. 1 pick. Despite uncertainty about his future team, Celebrini's impressive freshman season with Boston University has solidified his status as a top contender.

The lottery will determine the draft order for the first 16 picks, primarily for teams that failed to qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. With the 2024 draft reportedly set to take place at Sphere in Las Vegas, anticipation for the event continues to grow.

Two lottery drawings will decide the fate of the top picks, with teams vying for the coveted No. 1 and No. 2 selections. However, teams can only move up 10 selections if they win one of the draws, adding an element of suspense to the proceedings.

Leading the pack in terms of odds is the San Jose Sharks, who finished last in the NHL standings with an 18.5 percent chance of securing the No. 1 pick. Following closely behind are the Chicago Blackhawks and the Anaheim Ducks, with odds of 13.5 percent and 11.5 percent, respectively.

Reflecting on last year's draft lottery success, the Chicago Blackhawks snagged the No. 1 pick and selected center Connor Bedard, who made an immediate impact with an impressive rookie season.

As anticipation builds for the lottery, all eyes are on Celebrini, who turns 18 on June 13. Standing at 6-foot and 190 pounds, Celebrini dominated the NCAA Division I men's hockey scene, earning recognition as the youngest player to win the Hobey Baker Award. His stellar performance at Boston University, where he tallied 32 goals and 64 points in 38 games, solidifies his status as a top prospect for the upcoming draft.

With the draft lottery shaping the future of NHL franchises and the anticipation surrounding Celebrini's potential, hockey enthusiasts are in for an exhilarating event come May 7.