Vancouver Canucks fall to third overall as Maple Leafs win NHL Draft Lottery

It’s more tough luck for the Vancouver Canucks.

The Canucks will select third overall in the NHL Draft Lottery, missing out on what would have been the first number 1 pick in franchise history.

Even with the strongest chances of picking first overall heading into the night, Vancouver saw the top pick slip away as the Toronto Maple Leafs moved up to claim first overall. The San Jose Sharks, who entered with the eighth-best odds, also jumped ahead and secured the second pick.

The result means the Canucks remain without a first overall pick in team history.

While it’s not the outcome fans were hoping for, the Canucks will still pick third overall, which marks their first top three selection since 1999.

Vancouver finished last in the NHL standings this season and held the highest odds heading into the lottery with 185 of the 1,000 possible combinations.

They ultimately held their spot after the lottery draws played out live.

Now, attention turns to Gavin McKenna. The highly touted 17-year-old winger is expected to go first overall, but there is still plenty of intrigue at the top of the draft.

McKenna has already shown he can handle the spotlight. During his first college game, opposing fans loudly booed him and chanted “overrated” every time he touched the puck.

“I usually have a good chuckle… when I hear all that stuff, I get pretty motivated,” he said.

Even without the top pick, the Canucks remain in a strong position to land a high-end prospect.

The third overall pick has historically produced elite players, and Vancouver will have the opportunity to add a major piece to its future.

The 2026 NHL Draft is set for June 26th and 27th in Buffalo.