The NHL was put in a difficult position by Covid-19 shutting down much of the world. The season hadn’t concluded, and with the play-in format, there wasn’t an easy way to run the lottery. As such a placeholder method was used, allowing the teams that don’t advance past the qualifying round to have a chance at first overall and QMJHL star Alexis Lafreniere. And really, what were the odds that the placeholder spot would win?
Because the Gods of Chaos love the NHL, a placeholder team has won the lottery. After the play-in round is completed the teams that do not advance will be put in another lottery, giving them the chance to get the pick.