The 2023 NHL Draft was defined by a generational talent, several players who made immediate impacts, and several lottery picks who are still working to establish themselves in the league.
Currently, 25 of the 32 first-round selections have appeared in at least one NHL game and are expected to be full-time regulars next season, while others continue to refine their games.
By evaluating talent, organizational fit, and positional requirements, this exercise explores what the top 10 picks of the 2023 draft would look like if franchises had a second chance at selecting.
1. Chicago Blackhawks: Connor Bedard, Center
Original Pick: Connor Bedard, Center
While not a guaranteed certainty, Connor Bedard remains the highest-ceiling prospect in this class. Even while playing for a struggling Chicago Blackhawks roster, Bedard managed to record 30 goals and 75 points in 69 games last season.
He possesses unique, game-breaking abilities and has demonstrated a capacity to elevate his teammates’ performance. Though a shoulder injury sustained during training will cause him to miss the start of this season, there is a strong possibility he returns in November ready to perform at his best.
2. Anaheim Ducks: Leo Carlsson, Center
Original Pick: Leo Carlsson, Center
An argument can be made for Leo Carlsson to be the number one pick over Bedard, given his impressive professional start. This high ceiling is likely why the Philadelphia Flyers were willing to offer him an $18 million-per-season offer sheet.
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With 201 NHL games and 141 points under his belt, Carlsson has already tasted playoff hockey, where he looked like one of the premier players in the league. While the Ducks didn’t definitely secure Carlsson on draft night, they certainly wouldn’t hesitate this time.
3. Columbus Blue Jackets: Adam Fantilli, Center
Original Pick: Adam Fantilli, Center
The top three remains unchanged with Columbus selecting Adam Fantilli. Having secured consecutive 50-point seasons and a 30-goal campaign, Fantilli is evolving into a premier top-line center. He is also developing a robust defensive game, marks a vital step in his evolution.
Fantilli has the potential to be a consistent point-per-game player capable of contributing in all situations on a championship team. While Columbus would benefit from more creative skill around him, Fantilli provides a complete package with the size and ability to dominate offensively.
4. San Jose Sharks: Zach Benson, Left Wing
Original Pick: Will Smith, Center
Despite being drafted 13th overall, Zach Benson arrived in the NHL immediately and looked right at home. His game is defined by elite skill in tight spaces and a competitive mentality that belies his 176-pound frame.
Benson proved to be an aggressive force on the boards and in scrums last season while maintaining his offensive output, totaling 43 points in 65 games. His value was most evident during the playoffs, and the Sharks would gain a versatile top-six winger with his combination of skill and grit.
5. Montreal Canadiens: Ryan Leonard, Right Wing
Original Pick: David Reinbacher, Defenseman
Ryan Leonard provides the physicality and rush-game capability that the Montreal Canadiens lacked during their playoff run. Leonard would offer the size the Canadiens need for their top six and introduce a new dimension to their offense.
During his rookie season with the Washington Capitals, Leonard was productive, scoring 20 goals and 45 points in 75 games. He could become a modern version of Max Pacioretty, making the Canadiens’ forward core much more intimidating.
6. Arizona Coyotes: Will Smith, Center
Original Pick: Dmitri Simashev, Defenseman
The Arizona Coyotes required more elite offensive talent to pair with Clayton Keller. Looking at their current trajectory as the Utah Mammoth, Will Smith would have been an ideal fit for their top six.
Smith’s elite playmaking would have also complemented Dylan Guenther on the second line. Smith was the second-leading scorer for the Sharks, recording 24 goals and 59 assists in 69 games. After just 143 NHL games, he has already surpassed the 100-point milestone with 104, showcasing his seamless transition to the pro level.
7. Philadelphia Flyers: Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Defenseman
Original Pick: Matvei Michkov, Right Wing
The Philadelphia Flyers are in search of more dynamic movement from their blueline, and Axel Sandin-Pellikka fits that description perfectly. He would be an ideal partner for players like Cam York and Jamie Drysdale.
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In his rookie season, Sandin-Pellikka recorded 21 points in 68 games with the Detroit Red Wings. He has also excelled internationally, captaining Sweden at the World Juniors to a gold medal and finishing as one of the tournament’s top scorers.
While Matvei Michkov possesses immense talent, Sandin-Pellikka meets a specific positional need and offers a transition game suited for Rick Tocchet’s system.
8. Washington Capitals: Matthew Wood, Left Winger
Original Pick: Ryan Leonard, Right Wing
Since Leonard is no longer available in this scenario, the Capitals would target a similar profile in Matthew Wood. Both players rely on a foundation of size and physicality paired with scoring ability.
Wood played 71 games for the Nashville Predators last season, totaling 17 goals and 30 points as a rookie. He projects as an impactful top-six winger who can thrive in high-intensity playoff environments while maintaining scoring production.
9. Detroit Red Wings: Dalibor Dvorsky, Center
Original Pick: Nate Danielson, Center
Dalibor Dvorsky had a standout 2024-25 season in the AHL before joining a St. Louis Blues team looking for consistency. Playing in a bottom-six role, Dvorsky’s two-way game has begun to shine in the NHL, with his offensive production expected to grow.
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The 21-year-old recorded 12 goals and 21 points in 71 NHL games last season. In this scenario, Detroit secures a reliable two-way center, providing an upgrade over Danielson, who is still adjusting to the professional level after 28 NHL games.
10. St. Louis Blues: Matvei Michkov, Right Wing
Original Pick: Dalibor Dvorsky, Center
Michkov falls to the Blues in this simulation due to concerns regarding his defensive play and habits away from the puck. While his time in Philadelphia has been inconsistent, his talent remains undeniable, maintaining his status as a top-10 talent.
The Blues needed high-end skill to complement Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas, and Michkov would provide exactly that. The 21-year-old recorded 63 points in the 2024-25 season and 51 points the following year, achieving consecutive 20-goal seasons.