Unexpected surprise coming for the San Jose Sharks at the 4th overall pick? It would be a huge moment for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens

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David St-Jean
June 24, 2023 (9:58)

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As we are now only five days away from the highly anticipated 2023 NHL Draft, there is much speculation floating around, with several of the same names being mentioned frequently.

However, a new one has recently come up and it's coming from a reputable source. Expert Jeff Marek from Sportsnet just released his top 5 picks and there is a big surprise at number 4.

1- Connor Bedard to Chicago

2- Adam Fantilli to Anaheim

3- Leo Carlsson to Columbus

4- Zach Benson to San Jose

5- Will Smith to Montreal

- Jeff Marek

Imagine the scenario!

We all have memories of our reaction after a draft day surprise. One could think of the acquisition of Kirby Dach last season in Montreal. Or, one could think of the Columbus Blue Jackets shocking the hockey world in 2016 by passing on Jesse Puljujarvi and selecting Pierre-Luc Dubois (Puljujarvi was a unanimous top 3 pick at the time). If Benson does indeed drop to the 4th overall pick, it would be that type of reaction; shock and excitement at the opportunity to select Will Smith.

Marek believes in this scenario! He also adds that if San Jose passes on Benson, with Smith being taken instead, Benson could really be Kent Hughes' pick. His colleague Elliotte Friedman added even more to this idea saying:

"I think that the Habs want Smith. Lot of teams think that if Hughes doesn't select Will Smith, it will be Reinbacher." - Friedman

It looks like the draft is going to come down to Smith, Benson and Reinbacher.

Everyone is really excited for the draft to begin, as it features some of the best potential talents in the league.