Blues Get Top Pick, Keep Tkachuk

One of the worst seasons in franchise history led to the best draft position in franchise history. After recording a league-worst 57 points this season, the St. Louis Blues won the NHL Draft lottery on Thursday, meaning the Blues will have the top pick in the June 24 draft. The team’s highest pick was Perry Turnbull, who was selected second overall in 1979. Also on Thursday, the Blues announced that left winger Keith Tkachuk will return for the 2006-2007 season. The team picked up the option on Tkachuk, who will make $3.8 million next season. Injuries limited Tkachuk to 41 games this season. He scored 15 goals and added 21 assists.