WATCH: Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson's thoughts on NHL Draft Lottery being rigged

2022 NHL Draft - Round One
Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson

With the NHL Draft Lottery on the horizon, Chicago Blackhawks fans are abuzz with excitement and anticipation. This pivotal event holds immense significance for teams vying to secure a top pick and potentially land the next hockey superstar. Amidst this atmosphere of heightened enthusiasm, an intriguing street interview unfolded, featuring Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson engaging in a conversation with a Blackhawks fan.

During the interview, Davidson, the mastermind behind the team's strategic decisions, was approached by a hockey fan who was unaware of Kyle's true identity. The interaction commenced innocently, with the reporter inquiring about Kyle's name and background. The reporter was completely unaware that he was conversing with the very person responsible for shaping the future of the Chicago Blackhawks.

As the interview progressed, the reporter delved into Davidson's hockey knowledge, seeking insights ranging from general familiarity with the game to player recognition. Davidson modestly rated himself a four out of ten in terms of hockey expertise and listed several notable players, including Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith, and many others.

Curiosity fueled the next question: If given the opportunity, what change would the fan make to the NHL? Davidson kept it natural and expressed his satisfaction with the game in its current state.

The interview took a surprising turn the reporter posed a direct query: Do you believe the NHL rigged the draft in favor of the Chicago Blackhawks? Davidson confidently dismissed such notions, firmly asserting his belief in the integrity of the league's draft process

Here's the video:


Chicago Blackhawks NHL draft selections for 2023

The Chicago Blackhawks will commence the 2023 NHL Draft by selecting first overall on Wednesday (June 28). They earned this privilege the winning the draft lottery and leaping from the third overall position.

The Blackhawks' coveted choice is Connor Bedard. The team's general manager, Kyle Davidson, expressed his elation and acknowledged the transformative potential of such a high pick. He expects that it would accelerate the team's rebuilding process and bring about significant changes to the franchise, city and its history.

However, while the Blackhawks have secured the top pick, they won't have the first selection in subsequent rounds. Instead, their order will follow the reverse order of the standings, meaning they will pick third unless they make trades involving the pick or acquire additional selections.

The Chicago Blackhawks have 11 picks in the 2023 NHL Draft, including two in the first round and four in the second. One of their first-round picks was acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Brandon Hagel. The additional second-round picks were obtained through trades involving the Lightning, New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators.

With an abundance of early picks in their possession, Chicago Blackhawks general manager Davidson has the opportunity to trade some of them for established NHL players. He emphasized the excitement of bolstering the team's talent pool and acknowledged the significance of draft assets in pursuing this objective.

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