The Calgary Flames endured a tough 2025-26 NHL season, finishing among the league’s worst teams. But there’s a silver lining: a prime opportunity in the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery, which takes place Tuesday night. With the draft order on the line, the Flames could land anywhere from the No. 1 overall pick to the No. 6 spot—here’s a breakdown of what that means and the odds behind it.

Entering the lottery with the fourth-best odds, Calgary holds a combined 19% chance of securing either the first or second pick. That’s a legitimate shot at a franchise-altering talent, with many scouts eyeing Gavin McKenna as the potential top selection. The Flames can’t drop lower than sixth, but picking anywhere in the top six is a solid outcome for a team looking to rebuild.

For context, among Canadian teams, the Vancouver Canucks boast the best lottery odds, followed by the Flames at fourth, the Toronto Maple Leafs at fifth, and the Winnipeg Jets at seventh. While Calgary’s odds aren’t the highest, they’re strong enough to keep fans hopeful. A top pick could be the game-changer the Flames need to accelerate their return to contention.

Whether it’s a franchise cornerstone at No. 1 or a quality prospect at No. 6, the Flames are in a position to add key talent. All eyes will be on Tuesday’s lottery to see if luck favors Calgary—and if they can turn a tough season into a bright future.