The hockey world was buzzing with anticipation as the results of the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery were finally unveiled, marking a pivotal moment for several franchises—most notably, the Montreal Canadiens. With the stakes higher than ever, fans and analysts alike watched closely, eager to see how the lottery verdict would shape the upcoming draft and the future of their favorite teams. For Montreal, the implications stretched far beyond just a number on a board; the outcome would determine the final resolution of a high-profile trade and set the tone for the team’s offseason strategy.

As the dust settled, the Canadiens found themselves in an enviable position, holding not one but two valuable selections in the first round. The news sent a wave of excitement through the fan base, with many already speculating on how these picks could be leveraged to further accelerate the team’s rebuild. Meanwhile, the lottery delivered its usual share of surprises and drama, shaking up expectations and providing fresh storylines for the months ahead. With new opportunities on the horizon and past trades now fully realized, the Canadiens enter the draft season with renewed optimism and plenty of intriguing options on the table.

The Montreal Canadiens now have their answer following the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery.

This 2025 lottery still carried a certain level of importance for the Canadiens, particularly because it finalized the trade involving Sean Monahan that was made in 2022 between the Montreal Canadiens and the Calgary Flames.

The Canadiens are now officially confirmed to own the 16th and 17th overall picks in the 2025 NHL Draft

We have our answer!

Following the 2025 lottery, the Montreal Canadiens officially hold the 16th and 17th overall picks for this June’s draft.

Given the circumstances, this is fantastic news and the best-case scenario for Kent Hughes!

The Sean Monahan trade is looking more and more like a major steal for the Habs, and it’s now officially settled as the Flames’ pick is going to Montreal this summer:

Sean Monahan trade in 2022:

CGY receives: Future Considerations

MTL gets 16th overall in 2025

They proceed to trade him to Winnipeg in 2024 for a 2024 1st. (That first was traded to select Michael Hage)

Final product: future considerations for Michael Hage and 16th overall

So yes, we got a verdict for the Montreal Canadiens, but we also witnessed a major twist in the 2025 lottery, as the New York Islanders secured the first overall pick!

That’s a huge surprise.

The next GM of the New York Islanders will definitely get a nice little boost.

Speaking of major surprises, how about the Utah hockey team!

“Utah HC becomes the team with the lowest odds (14th-best odds) to win a modern NHL Draft Lottery.”

– Marco D’Amico

They’ll be selecting 4th overall!

Full statement:

More details to come.