2019 NHL Entry Draft: Preview, how to watch, and more

It’s finally draft day! After securing the ninth overall pick in what will be the Ducks highest selection since sixth overall in 2012, the Ducks will head into tonight with seven selections, including two in both the first round.

If you would like to refresh yourself on some of the potential selections the Ducks could make at both picks nine and 29, make sure to check out our 2019 Draft coverage here.

This year’s draft is very heavy on centers and skilled wingers in the first round, with the Ducks in most in need of an impact pivot. And while anything can happen once the names start being called, don’t expect Murray to go off the board with a Swedish defenseman ranked further back than where they are picking.

“We’re hoping some guys will go before some other guys,” Murray told the OC Register in response to getting a center with their top pick who will make a run at a roster spot right out of the gate. “We’re hoping for some breaks in there. We’re hoping two defensemen go in the first eight. That would help us tremendously.”

Murray also told reporters that they are focusing in on three specific players and that if they are not available when it comes time for the Ducks to make the ninth overall pick, he would consider moving back.

Outside of Jack Hughes and Kaapo Kakko going first and second, there seems to be no agreed-upon order for how things will go. As soon as the Chicago Blackhawks are put on the clock, Friday night will become as unpredictable as a bouncing puck.

How to Watch

Round 1

Date: Friday, June 21st

Start time: 5:00 PM PDT / 8:00 PM EDT

Venue: Rogers Arena, Vancouver, British Columbia

TV Channel: NBCSN (USA), Sportsnet (Canada)

Rounds 2-7

Date: Saturday, June 22

Start time: 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT

TV Channel: NHL Network (USA), Sportsnet (Canada)

* Pick acquired in trade