The 2018 NHL Draft is a two-day event at American Airlines Center in Dallas, and things kick off on Friday night with the first round (7:30 p.m. ET, NBCSN).

Swedish defenseman Rasmus Dahlin is expected to be the first overall selection, with the Buffalo Sabres at No. 1 in line to nab the 18-year-old. It’s the first time Buffalo has the top pick in the draft since 1987, when they picked center Pierre Turgeon.

“This here’s a player that could be a cornerstone to a franchise. And he’ll be a staple on their blue line for years and years to come,” NHL central scouting director Dan Marr told the Associated Press in early June.

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The Carolina Hurricanes own the second pick, followed by Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, and Arizona Coyotes to round out the top five.

The entire draft lasts seven rounds, with the final six rounds taking place on Saturday (11 a.m., NBCSN). NBCSN will televise the first round, with online coverage available through NBC Sports. NHL Network takes over on Saturday for Rounds 2-7.

NHL Draft Friday schedule

Location: American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas

Round 1 (31 picks in all)

Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

TV: NBCSN, SportsNet, TVA Sports

Online: NBC Sports, SportsNet Live