In anticipation of the NHL draft, San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier has maintained secrecy surrounding the team's top pick, set to be unveiled Friday night. Initially leaning towards standout Macklin Celebrini from Boston University, Grier now keeps options open amid intrigue over the franchise's rebuilding strategy. Celebrini's leadership qualities and impressive season stats make him a pivotal choice for the Sharks, aiming to rejuvenate amid a playoff drought.

With Celebrini likely at the helm, attention shifts to other picks and potential trades involving stars like Mitch Marner and Patrik Laine. The draft's venue at Las Vegas' new Sphere promises a unique spectacle eagerly awaited by prospects and fans alike. Meanwhile, the Utah Hockey Club, now based in Salt Lake City, gears up for its new lineup introduction, marking a fresh chapter as the NHL expands its footprint.

The Chicago Blackhawks, holding the No. 2 pick, face tough decisions among top prospects such as Artyom Levshunov and Ivan Demidov, navigating scouting challenges in Russia. Central Scouting Director Dan Marr praises this year's draft for its depth in defensive talents but notes thinner prospects in goal, highlighting Mikhail Yegorov among standout names. In Salt Lake City, GM Bill Armstrong embraces local enthusiasm, recognizing the significance of the NHL's arrival for the city's hockey scene amidst rising excitement and strategic preparations across the league.