INSIDE HOCKEY

The New York Islanders have been awarded the first pick in the 2009 NHL entry draft.

The Islanders finished with the league's worst record this past season and had a 48.1 percent chance of earning the top pick. No changes were made to the draft order among the bottom five finishers this season. The Islanders will pick first, the Tampa Bay Lightning second and the Colorado Avalanche third. The Atlanta Thrashers own the fourth pick while the Los Angeles Kings round out the top five.

"We're extremely pleased to have the first overall selection in this year's draft," said Islanders' General Manager Garth Snow. "This is an exciting time for the franchise and we are truly looking forward to the 2009 NHL entry draft."

The top two prospects in the draft are considered to be London Knights center John Tavares and Swedish defenseman Victor Hedman.

The Islanders indicated they are keeping their options open to draft either Tavares, Hedman or a completely different player. Snow has also indicated he would entertain trade offers for the top pick.

This will be the fourth time the Islanders have held the top pick in the draft. They selected winger Billy Harris in the 1972 draft during their expansion season. One year later, Hall of Fame defenseman Denis Potvin was selected first overall. Current goalie Rick DiPietro was selected first overall in 2000, the last time New York held the first overall pick.

The 2009 NHL entry draft will be held on June 26 and 27 in Montreal.