No doubt Drury keeps the pick IMO, I don't even think it's worth a second of discussion. I think you have to bet on yourself. Making the playoffs in the NHL is something most decent teams do, so I would expect the Rangers to be a playoff team next season. Right there that puts the Rangers pick next season worse than 12. I would trade the pick, assuming you can get very good value. The Rangers are not a 3-years from now team, and the 12th pick most likely will need a few years to add value. Trade the pick for a good return, or part of a larger package for a good return, and let's get back to the top next season.
As for the # 1 pick, it's always nice to get it, but unfortunately for the Isles, there is no super-stud generational talent in this year's draft. Looks like the dman Schaefer or C Misa are the top guys, with Schaefer maybe the top guy. Both will be very good players I'm sure, as most # 1 overall picks are, but neither looks to be a stud franchise guy. Sorry Isles, you get a Lafreniere type....
They could, but I have generally seen him ranked 3rd or 4th, even if he is the most pro-ready prospect. Even still, not a generational guy. Next season McKenna is supposed to be that guy, we'll see. If the Rangers had lost another game or two, they would have been where the Isles are, 10th best odds, and moved up....