NHL top two prospect in 2024 were affected by injuries that changed the draft

The projected top pick of the 2024 NHL Draft, Cayden Lindstrom, has seen his prospects wane after a January injury sidelined him for weeks. Originally a standout forward for the Medicine Hat Tigers, Lindstrom suffered a herniated disc—a condition more severe than initially believed, costing him significant playtime and casting shadows over his draft stock.

Corey Pronman of The Athletic first reported the injury that not only knocked Lindstrom out of regular-season games but also raised concerns about his long-term fitness.

His return during the playoffs was a welcome sight, yet the damage to his draft position might already be irreversible. This turn of events has dramatically reshaped team strategies approaching draft day.

Scott Powers, also of The Athletic, notes a strategic pivot by the Chicago Blackhawks. With Lindstrom's injury public, the Blackhawks have reportedly adjusted their focus to Artyom Levshunov and Ivan Demidov, sidelining Lindstrom whom many believed could be their second overall pick. A tweet from Chi_Prospects echoed this sentiment:

Despite the setback, other teams like the Montreal Canadiens show unabated interest in Lindstrom. Marco D'Amico of Montreal Hockey Now speculates on the potential outcomes:

The Canadiens could potentially select Lindstrom fourth overall or allow him to slide to the Columbus Blue Jackets depending on his medical evaluations.

As the first round of the draft approaches on June 28th, all eyes will be on Lindstrom's placement. Will his past injury impact his future in the NHL, or will a team take a chance on his undeniable talent?

This storyline adds an intriguing layer to draft day dynamics, where risk assessment and potential payoff are weighed with every pick.