We're in the twilight of the 2022-23 campaign and there's plenty of excitement just around the corner.
The NHL announced key dates for the remainder of the season on Wednesday. The winner of the Connor Bedard sweepstakes will be determined during the draft lottery on May 8 at 7 p.m. ET, while the playoffs will kick off April 17. The start date for the Stanley Cup Final may be moved up depending on how long it takes for the previous rounds to be played.
Here are the other priority events:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 17 | Start of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs |
| May 8 | NHL Draft Lottery (7 p.m. ET) |
| June 3 | Tentative start of Stanley Cup Final |
| June 4-10 | NHL Scouting Combine |
| June 26 | 2023 NHL Awards |
| June 28 | Round 1 of 2023 NHL Draft (7 p.m. ET) |
| June 29 | Rounds 2-7 of 2023 NHL Draft (11 a.m. ET) |
Though NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has denied that teams tank to improve their odds in the draft lottery, Bedard has the potential to be a generational talent for one lucky franchise. He has 61 goals and 125 points in 51 contests with the WHL's Regina Pats this campaign.
The Columbus Blue Jackets sit in last place entering play Wednesday with a 21-38-7 record and a .371 point percentage.
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