The 10 Greatest Draft Picks in NHL History
The NHL Entry Draft has always been a cornerstone event for teams looking to build a winning roster. While some picks go on to have mediocre careers, others transcend expectations and change the course of a franchise’s history. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and look at the ten greatest draft picks in NHL history.
1. Wayne Gretzky – 1979 WHA-NHL Dispersal Draft
Technically, Gretzky was never part of an NHL Entry Draft. Instead, he came to the NHL through the 1979 WHA-NHL merger. The “Great One” holds nearly every significant scoring record and is universally regarded as the best hockey player of all time. His 2,857 points in 1,487 games are numbers that may never be surpassed.
2. Mario Lemieux – Pittsburgh Penguins, 1st overall, 1984
A once-in-a-generation talent, Lemieux was the savior the Penguins desperately needed. Facing bankruptcy and possible relocation, Pittsburgh won the Lemieux lottery. With two Stanley Cups as a player and more as an owner, his legacy is forever enshrined in the Steel City.
3. Steve Yzerman – Detroit Red Wings, 4th overall, 1983
Stevie Y spent all 22 of his NHL seasons with Detroit. He transformed from a pure scorer to a two-way leader, guiding the Red Wings to three Stanley Cups. Yzerman’s leadership, skill, and loyalty make him one of the greatest draft stories in league history.
4. Nicklas Lidström – Detroit Red Wings, 53rd overall, 1989
Arguably the best defenseman of his generation, Lidström was a steal in the third round. With seven Norris Trophies and four Stanley Cups, his impact was felt every time he took the ice. The Swede’s smooth style of play made him a perennial fan favorite.
5. Pavel Datsyuk – Detroit Red Wings, 171st overall, 1998
Datsyuk’s story is one of the most improbable. Drafted in the 6th round, he quickly became known for his dazzling skillset. The “Magic Man” was a two-time Stanley Cup winner and a three-time Selke Trophy recipient, known for his extraordinary two-way play.
6. Dominik Hašek – Chicago Blackhawks, 199th overall, 1983
One of the most unorthodox goalies ever, Hašek’s style was as effective as it was unique. The “Dominator” won six Vezina Trophies and two Hart Trophies – a testament to his dominance. Although he started with Chicago, his legendary status was cemented with Buffalo and later Detroit.
7. Martin Brodeur – New Jersey Devils, 20th overall, 1990
Holding numerous goaltending records, Brodeur is often in the conversation for the greatest goalie of all time. With three Stanley Cups and four Vezina Trophies, his career was nothing short of spectacular, especially given his late first-round selection.
8. Henrik Lundqvist – New York Rangers, 205th overall, 2000
“The King” of New York for over a decade, Lundqvist’s late-round selection is a reminder that gems can be found anywhere in the draft. While a Stanley Cup eluded him, his Vezina Trophy and countless clutch performances endeared him to fans worldwide.
9. Mark Messier – Edmonton Oilers, 48th overall, 1979
The leader of the Oilers’ dynasty and the man who promised and delivered a Stanley Cup to New York, Messier was a force of nature. His leadership, grit, and skill made him one of the most complete players in NHL history.
10. Brett Hull – Calgary Flames, 117th overall, 1984
The Golden Brett, son of legendary Bobby Hull, became one of the most prolific goal scorers in NHL history. With his iconic one-timer and knack for scoring, Hull’s career saw him net over 700 goals, placing him in an elite group of scorers.
The NHL draft is a blend of scouting, luck, and foresight. These ten players not only exceeded expectations but also transformed their franchises and left indelible marks on the league. Their stories serve as a testament to the potential that lies within each draft pick and the magic that can ensue when talent meets opportunity.