Things change quickly in the NHL, and that’s especially true for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens. Proof? Back in December, we were looking to see if the Habs would be drafting in the top 10 at the upcoming NHL Draft.

As of today, however, Martin St-Louis’ squad is in the playoff picture.

That means the Habs wouldn’t be part of the draft lottery if the draw were held today.

Fans, however, have another battle to keep an eye on in hopes of getting a higher pick-and that’s the Calgary Flames’ pick.

Acquired in the Sean Monahan trade back in 2022, that pick will finally be conveyed this summer after meeting a multitude of conditions.

As of now, according to the site Tankathon, the Flames hold the 16th selection.

But that could change significantly, as the playoff race in the Western Conference is extremely tight.

A top-15 pick for the Habs and Kent Hughes in the 2025 Draft?

As one Reddit user points out, the Canadiens have a 76% chance of drafting between 11th and 16th with the Flames’ pick.

“The Calgary Flames have a 16% chance of making the playoffs and an 8% chance of landing a top-10 pick. That means the Canadiens have a 76% chance of getting a pick between 11 and 16 from the Flames.”

That’s quite a plot twist-but we’re here for it.

Kent Hughes could end up with two closely positioned first-round picks at the next draft, as his own could land around 17th if the team makes the playoffs, or in the top 16 if they miss.

The chance to draft promising Quebec prospect Justin Carbonneau would therefore be quite high.

We remember that the Habs’ front office has closely scouted the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada forward.