The 2026 NHL Draft Lottery is finally here, and for the New Jersey Devils, it's a night that could shape their entire offseason. General Manager Sunny Mehta and the organization are at a pivotal crossroads—after a 2025-26 season that fell short of expectations, the Devils are determined to return to the postseason. That means this summer is all about making a splash, and their first-round pick could be the key to unlocking a major addition.
So, can the Devils defy the odds and move up in the draft order? Let's break down everything you need to know about tonight's lottery.
When and Where to Watch
The lottery takes place on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET, live from NHL Network studios in Secaucus, N.J. You can catch the broadcast on ESPN, Sportsnet, and TVA Sports. The results will determine the first 16 picks of the 2026 NHL Draft, which is set for June 26-27 in Buffalo.
How the Lottery Works
The process involves a two-phase ping-pong ball draw with 1,001 possible combinations. Phase 1 selects the No. 1 overall pick, while Phase 2 determines the No. 2 pick. Teams can move up a maximum of 10 spots, and only the top 11 seeds are eligible to win the top prize. The remaining order is set by inverse regular-season standings.
Devils' Odds and Outlook
New Jersey holds the 12th lottery spot, giving them a 2.5% chance (25 combinations) to win the draw. However, they can only move up to No. 2 overall—no higher. Their most likely outcome is to stay in the 10th-12th range, which means they'll need to be strategic about their next move. (*Note: The pick is conditional from the March 7, 2025 trade with Boston.)
Top Prospect to Watch
Gavin McKenna, a left winger from Penn State, is the favorite to go No. 1 overall. If the Devils somehow land a top-two pick, they'd be adding an NHL-ready talent like McKenna or Stenberg who can contribute immediately and build for the future. On the flip side, if they end up near their expected position, they might consider trading the pick for more immediate help.
Remember, the lottery only sets the order for non-playoff teams. Full results are expected shortly after 7 p.m. ET, so stay tuned—Devils Rink Report will have live analysis as soon as the Devils' pick is locked in. This is a night that could define their path forward, and for fans, it's one you won't want to miss.