Two Russian forwards have a good shot at being taken with the first two picks. Nail Yakupov of the OHL's Sarnia Sting was ranked at the top by NHL central scouting, scoring 31 goals and 38 assists for 69 points in 42 games this season.
Mikhail Grigorenko, of the QMJHL's Quebec Remparts is also a highly coveted prospect, netting 40 goals and 45 assists and 85 points for his squad.
"We're coming into a different phase with the young people in our organization," Oilers GM Steve Tambellini told the Edmonton Journal. "We've got options. I could take the No. pick. I could trade back for a different pick and an established player."
In 2010, the Oilers finished in 30th place, won the lottery and took forward Taylor Hall with their first selection at the draft.
In 2011, they were once again 30th place, but the New Jersey Devils actually won the lottery. However, the rules state teams can only move up four spots, so the Devils could only go from No. 8 to No. 4. The Oilers retained the first selection and took forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.
The Columbus Blue Jackets will pick second, followed by the Montreal Canadiens, New York Islanders and Toronto Maple Leafs.
The NHL Entry Draft will be held in Pittsburgh on June 22.
