The 2024-25 NHL regular season has concluded, leading to an offseason of reflection for nine eliminated teams. Each team will evaluate their performance, assessing failures and successes while strategizing for free agency, trades, and the upcoming draft.

The New Jersey Devils showed resilience despite injuries and the absence of star Jack Hughes, bolstered by strong performances from Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt. In contrast, the Columbus Blue Jackets made strides but struggled with goaltending and injuries. The Calgary Flames improved their identity but faced offensive challenges, while the Anaheim Ducks' youth showed promise, highlighted by Luka Dostal's goaltending.

Other teams like the Boston Bruins embraced a rebuild, trading assets for future potential but suffered a disappointing season. The Buffalo Sabres are desperate to snap their long playoff drought, while the Chicago Blackhawks are rebuilding around young talent. The Detroit Red Wings are seeking consistency to end their playoff absence, while the Nashville Predators and New York Islanders need to reassess their roster dynamics in preparation for a more competitive future.

The upcoming NHL draft lottery promises to be an intriguing event, with the San Jose Sharks once again holding the best odds for the top pick. With a 25.5% chance to secure the coveted number one spot, the Sharks are looking to replicate their success from last year when they selected Macklin Celebrini. Despite Celebrini's impressive rookie season, the Sharks struggled overall, finishing with the league's worst record.

The draft features two standout prospects in defenseman Matthew Schaefer and center Michael Misa, ranked as the top North American skaters. Following the Sharks, the Chicago Blackhawks hold the second-best odds at 13.5%, having previously won the lottery and chosen Connor Bedard in 2023. Other teams in contention include Nashville, Philadelphia, and Boston, with stakes high for teams hoping to elevate their standings through a successful draft.

The NHL Draft Lottery for 2025 is set for May 5, 2025, at the NHL Network’s studio in Secaucus, NJ, and will be broadcast on ESPN, Sportsnet, and TVA Sports. The Lottery will determine the order for the first 16 picks in the draft, involving teams that missed the playoffs. This event occurs in two phases to select the first and second overall picks, with a limitation on the number of selections a team can move up. The San Jose Sharks lead the odds with an 18.5% chance of winning the first draw, followed by the Chicago Blackhawks at 13.5% and the Nashville Predators at 11.5%. The complete odds outline a competitive landscape among teams for prime picks.

Meanwhile, NHL Central Scouting has ranked top prospects for the draft, with Matthew Schaefer of the Erie Otters at the top. The NHL Scouting Combine will take place from June 1-7 in Buffalo, NY, showcasing eligible prospects. The Draft will be held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles across two days, starting on June 27, 2025. Tickets will go on sale on May 5.

The NHL's rookie class of 2024-2025 showcased remarkable talent with contenders for the Calder Trophy, notably Lane Hutson, Dustin Wolf, and Macklin Celebrini. Hutson, a 5'9" defenseman, excelled with 66 points and is poised to be a top fantasy draft pick next season. Wolf, now the Flames' starting goalie after the trade of Jacob Markstrom, delivered a solid performance with a .910 save percentage. Celebrini's potential as a point-per-game player shines despite playing for a struggling Sharks team. Emerging talents like Will Smith, Matvei Michkov, and Cutter Gauthier also promise to make significant impacts in their fantasy value.

San Jose Sharks goaltender Alexandar Georgiev confirmed he will not return next season after discussions with GM Mike Grier, making him a free agent. In contrast, Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals expressed his intention to continue playing, making it clear that retirement is not on his agenda, particularly as he looks forward to facing longtime rival Sidney Crosby one more time.

The Chicago Blackhawks are on the brink of a turnaround after a challenging five-year stretch of sub-30 win seasons. GM Kyle Davidson remains optimistic, believing the team will soon find key players to support their promising young core. Meanwhile, the Boston Bruins will retain their front office, as CEO Charlie Jacobs emphasizes the importance of preparation for the upcoming NHL Draft, aiming to bolster the roster through free agency while nurturing their young talents.