Canadiens Updated 2023 Draft Pick Ranks, Two Still Uncertain

The Montreal Canadiens got some much-needed clarity on their 2023 NHL Draft status, but the rank of some draft picks is still yet to be determined.

After the NHL Draft Lottery, the Canadiens now know that they’ll be picking 5th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, allowing them to get another key asset to help them in their rebuild.

However, they still don’t know where their second 1st-round pick, acquired from the Florida Panthers, will end up… at least officially.

The Panthers have a commanding 3-0 series lead over the Toronto Maple Leafs, meaning that another victory from Florida would push the rank of their pick from 17th overall to 29th overall.

That’s because the four teams that reach their respective Conference Finals always receive the last four picks in the NHL Draft.

Beyond the first round, the Montreal Canadiens have a very clear idea of where they’ll be picking throughout the rest of this draft.

They’ll have a relatively early pick in the second round with the coveted 37th overall pick, and again in third round with the 69th overall pick.

The Canadiens also have three 4th-round picks, two of which have been confirmed at 101st and 110th overall.

Their third 4th-round pick, which was acquired by the Vegas Golden Knights, is still yet to be confirmed, as the Golden Knights are currently duking it out with the Edmonton Oilers in the NHL Playoffs.

The Habs have a couple of picks in the fifth round; their own at 133rd overall, as well as that of the Calgary Flames at 144th overall.

Montreal then closes out the draft with the 165th pick in the sixth round, and the 197th pick in the seventh round.

Things Can Change In A Hurry

The chances that the Montreal Canadiens go into the 2023 NHL Draft with the same list that you see below is likely to be very low; as general manager Kent Hughes is looking to get aggressive leading up to June 28.

With veteran players being dangled in trades, and draft picks possibly being available for interesting hockey deals, the Habs are sure to be active.

They’re just waiting to see where all the chips fall before finally being able to have constructive conversations on all the assets available to them.

Buckle up folks, it’s about to get fun.