The NHL and its constant power shifts in terms of victories and championships in recent years seems to come from drafting great talent.
Sure, some would say that free agents are the ones that bring the titles, but when it is examined, the draftees are the steak and potatoes, while the free agent signings are simply the dessert.
Since the year 2000, the first overall selections have made immediate impacts in the league. These players have gone on to win multiple playoff series, Stanley Cup glory, Olympic greatness, and superstar rankings.
Players like Crosby, Ovechkin, Nash, Kovalchuk, Stamkos, and Kane have established themselves as faces of the game. Last year's pick, John Tavaras, looked impressive, and very well could join this list. The two goalies that have gone No. 1 overall have been Marc Andre Fleury, who was in net for the Penguins title win in 2009, and Rick DiPietro, who was brilliant in the first few years, but is looking to regain the magic after getting his breathtaking contract.
Erik Johnson has also been a solid player. He is a mainstay and a valuable piece of the Blues' efforts.
But the first overall pick is not the only place that a team can obviously become ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Joe Favia
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