Further to this: It sounds like there's a good chance the NHL would rule in Philadelphia's favor if this scenario plays out. Meaning, if Toronto retains its 2026 1st after tonight's lottery, expect 2027 1st to go to Flyers and 2028 1st to Bruins ... both unprotected.

Further to this: It sounds like there's a good chance the NHL would rule in Philadelphia's favor if this scenario plays out. Meaning, if Toronto retains its 2026 1st after tonight's lottery, expect 2027 1st to go to Flyers and 2028 1st to Bruins ... both unprotected. Quoting @KKurzNHL: Reminder for tonight's draft lottery: According to multiple team sources, the Flyers believe that if Toronto ends up in the top 5, they get that 2027 first rounder (originally property of the Maple Leafs) unprotected, and not top 10 protected. They believe that Toronto essentially already traded its 2028 first round pick in the Brandon Carlo deal in that situation. But they also are not completely sure if the league agrees with them. If Toronto ends up outside of the top five tonight, it's a moot point. Otherwise, expect the Flyers to ask the league to clarify.