New Delhi, May 8 -- the No. 1 overall pick and a clear path toward Gavin McKenna.

Toronto's stunning victory in the NHL Draft Lottery instantly altered the league's balance of power. The organization entered the night with only an 8.5 percent chance of landing the top selection, yet emerged with the right to draft the Penn State phenom widely projected as hockey's next franchise-changing superstar.

What makes the moment even more remarkable is the timing.

Less than 48 hours before the lottery, the Maple Leafs unveiled a completely rebuilt hockey operations structure. Former Arizona Coyotes executive John Chayka was introduced as general manager alongside franchise icon Mats Sundin, who joined the organization as senior executive advise...