'Welcome to the NHL' provides inside look at top prospects at 2023 Draft

NEW YORK -- The award-winning "Welcome to the NHL," produced by NHL Productions, returns with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the top prospects in the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft™ in Nashville. The show will premiere on Friday, July 21, at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and at 7 p.m. ET on NHL Network in the U.S. Sportsnet One will carry the program on Saturday, July 22, at 7 p.m. ET for fans in Canada. View the trailer

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Cameras follow seven top prospects - Connor Bedard (No. 1 overall, Chicago Blackhawks), Adam Fantilli (No. 3 overall, Columbus Blue Jackets), William Smith (No. 4 overall, San Jose Sharks), Oliver Moore (No. 19 overall, Chicago Blackhawks), Oliver Bonk (No. 22 overall, Philadelphia Flyers), Carey Terrance (No. 59, Anaheim Ducks) and Jacob Fowler (No. 69, Montreal Canadiens) - as they experience the anxiety and exhilaration of the NHL Draft with their families, friends and trusted advisors.

"Welcome to the NHL" provides an unprecedented inside look as prospects are welcomed to Nashville by fans on the red carpet, await selection inside Bridgestone Arena, and meet with media, executives and team staff moments after their names are called. The program captures the anticipation, excitement and emotion as each selection is announced - a pivotal moment for Clubs and aspiring players alike. Last year's "Welcome to the NHL" show, which covered the 2022 NHL Draft in Montreal, earned a 2023 Sports Emmy Award for Edited Event Coverage.

"Welcome to the NHL" Air Dates & Times

Network Air Date/Time (All Times ET)

ESPN+, Friday, July 21, 5 p.m.
NHL Network, Friday, July 21, 7 p.m. & 10 p.m.; Saturday, July 22, 3 p.m.; Sunday, July 23, 8 a.m.
SN1, Saturday, July 22, 7 p.m.
SN, Sunday, July 23, 1 p.m.

"Welcome to the NHL" will be available on the NHL's YouTube channel and NHL.com on July 21 following the premiere. TVA Sports in Canada and NHL international television partners will also broadcast the show - check local listings for details. Fans can tune in to the NHL Studios podcast "NHL Draft Class" for more, or follow the conversation via the official hashtag #NHLDraft.

The NHL Productions program is executive produced by NHL Chief Content Officer Steve Mayer. Anthony Marchegiano is the coordinating producer.