In each of the last three years, the Vancouver Canucks have been bad. Really bad. In fact, over the span of those three years, they have been the worst team in the NHL. And yet, they have drafted 5th, 5th, and 7th overall in each of the ensuing first round drafts. What gives?
Of course, we all know why it works this way. The Edmonton Oilers tanked for a decade and hoovered up first overall picks for years, leading the league to create the new draft lottery system, whereby the top three picks are decided not by the standings but by a lottery.