The season-long race to the bottom of the standings for a handful of teams was a bumpy one with a lot of pitfalls along the way. A rare win against a top team, too many non-regulation points, and a mid-season mini streak all held dire consequences for these lottery teams’ chances of landing a high selection. 

With Tuesday’s draft lottery solidifying the first 16 selections for the 2022 NHL Draft, mock draft season is now upon us. It’s a fun time for fans of teams who had little to root for much of the season. The possibilities are many and hope is high at this time of year. 

This 2022 class of talent lacks the surefire superstar at the top that we’ve seen a few times in the past seven or eight years. It also lacks a slamdunk first overall pick. Even though Shane Wright has held the spot down for nearly three years but his grasp on it has become a bit tenuous down the final stretch. 

There are upside defenders, high-octane wingers, and a few project centres in this lottery class. Not a goalie contender as far as the eye can see, so you don’t have to concern yourself with any masked men sneaking into the mix.

Without further ado, here are the first 16 picks in the 2022 NHL Draft.