Introduction
The 2026 NHL Draft Lottery is the first big stop on the road to the June 2026 Entry Draft. Fans want to know exactly where to watch, when it starts, and what the odds look like for each team. This guide gives you the TV channel, streaming options, start time, and a clear breakdown of the lottery odds—all in one place.
When Does the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery Start?
The lottery is scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET. The event runs for about 30‑45 minutes, after which the NHL will release the official draft order.
How to Watch on Television
In the United States, the NHL Draft Lottery is broadcast live on ESPN2. Canadian viewers can tune in to TSN2. Both networks will provide a live studio‑style broadcast with analysts breaking down each draw.
Live‑Stream Options
If you prefer streaming, you have three reliable ways to watch:
- ESPN+ (U.S.) – Access the live feed through the ESPN app or website. A subscription is required, but a free trial is often available.
- TSN Direct (Canada) – Stream the lottery via the TSN app on smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs.
- NHL.com Live Feed – The NHL offers a free, ad‑supported live stream on its official site and the NHL app. The stream mirrors the TV broadcast and includes a live chat for fan interaction.
Lottery Odds for the 2026 Draft
The NHL uses a weighted lottery system that gives the three non‑playoff teams the best chances to jump to the top three picks. Here’s a quick snapshot of the odds based on the final regular‑season standings:
| Team Position (after season) | Chance for 1st Overall | Chance for 2nd Overall | Chance for 3rd Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (worst record) | 18.5% | 13.5% | 10.5% |
| 2nd | 13.5% | 13.5% | 10.5% |
| 3rd | 10.5% | 13.5% | 13.5% |
| 4th‑7th (playoff teams) | 6.0%–2.0% each | 6.0%–2.0% each | 6.0%–2.0% each |
Note: Exact percentages may shift slightly as the regular season concludes, but the structure remains the same.
Key Takeaways
- The lottery winner can move up a maximum of four spots.
- All 14 non‑playoff teams participate, but only the top three picks are decided by the lottery.
- Teams outside the top three retain their original draft position if they are not drawn.
How to Make the Most of Your Viewing Experience
- Set a reminder for 7:00 PM ET on May 13.
- Check your subscription ahead of time—ESPN+, TSN Direct, or your cable package.
- Follow the live chat on NHL.com for real‑time reactions and expert analysis.
- Bookmark the odds table so you can see how each draw changes the potential order.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a die‑hard fan waiting for your team to climb the draft ladder or a casual viewer curious about the future stars of the NHL, the 2026 Draft Lottery is easy to access. Tune in on ESPN2 or TSN2, stream via ESPN+, TSN Direct, or the free NHL.com feed, and keep the odds table handy to follow each draw. The excitement starts at 7:00 PM ET—don’t miss it!
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.