2024 NHL Draft: Predicting the next 5 picks after Macklin Celebrini goes No. 1 overall to Sharks 

The 2024 NHL draft is slated to take place on Friday, and aside from Macklin Celebrini, the remainder of the top picks are a tad less predictable. This uncertainty is part of the reason why this year's iteration of the draft could be an exciting one.

Celebrini has long been tabbed as the No. 1 overall pick of the 2024 NHL draft, with the San Jose Sharks set to land a potential star to help their rebuild. While Celebrini is likely the top pick, there are many intriguing prospects likely to find themselves selected early.

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Predicting the next 5 picks after Macklin Celebrini in the 2024 NHL draft

#2. Chicago Blackhawks - Ivan Demidov

Last year, the Chicago Blackhawks drafted the future of their franchise in the shape of Connor Bedard. Now they have the opportunity to pair him with an elite winger, Ivan Demidov. The talented goalscoring forward could help create a dynamic duo for Chicago.

"The inside scoop on Ivan Demidov, our No. 2 ranked prospect for the 2024 NHL Draft: Part Kucherov, part Kaprizov, and the highest ceiling in the Class of 2024, writes @SEllisHockey" - @DailyFaceoff

#3. Anaheim Ducks - Artyom Levshunov

Artyom Levshunov could be the ideal target for the Anaheim Ducks. At 6-foot-2 and 210 lbs, Levshunov would provide the Ducks with additional size and physicality to their blueline. The young defenseman could be a major building block for the rebuilding Ducks squad.

#4. Columbus Blue Jackets - Cayden Lindstrom

The Columbus Blue Jackets were one of the most disappointing teams last season, finishing with a 27-43-12 record.

One of their weaknesses came on the offensive side which makes Cayden Lindstrom an intriguing target for the Blue Jackets. Lindstrom could present the club with size, playmaking and scoring.

"Oh the places Cayden Lindstrom could go… @tigershockey | #NHLDraft" - @TheWHL

#5. Montreal Canadiens - Sam Dickson

The Montreal Canadiens have developed a strong offensive core of Kirby Dach, Nick Suzuki and Cole Caulfield, which could have the team looking toward their blueline.

Sam Dickson is one of the most well-rounded defensemen in this year's draft. Dickson could provide the Canadiens with effective play on both sides of the ice, making him an intriguing pick at No. 5.

#6. Utah Hockey Club - Tij Iginla

The Utah Hockey Club is set to make its NHL debut this upcoming season and will be looking to make it as exciting as possible.

Selecting a player with a profile such as Tij Iginla in the 2024 NHL draft could help that cause. An energetic forward, Iginla could provide the Utah Hockey Club with some quality offensive skills and the potential to develop into a weapon for the team.