The New York Islanders entered the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery with just a 3.5% chance of landing the top pick. By the time ball No. 13 completed the winning 7-11-12-13 combination on Monday, they had secured the franchise’s first No. 1 overall selection since 2009.

The New York Islanders won the draft lottery, and the reaction, aside from immediate euphoria, was speculation on who they should take with the top pick.

The New York Islanders made a major jump, won the NHL Draft Lottery on Monday night and secured the right to the first pick at the draft on June 27. The San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks, Utah Hockey Club and Nashville Predators will round out the top five of the draft.