This article marks the third installment in our series reflecting on recent NHL Draft classes, examining how my assessments of these players might shift over time. The 2021 draft presented significant challenges for scouts, as leagues worldwide experienced interruptions, forcing many teams to rely predominantly on limited underage viewings or sparse opportunities during the draft season. Observing how this class develops will be intriguing, as results so far have been quite unpredictable. For this analysis, players needed to be selected in the specified draft class, irrespective of their initial eligibility year.
Tier 1: Bubble Elite and All-Star
| RANK | PLAYER | POS | DRAFT POSITION | TEAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Luke Hughes possesses a remarkably unique skill set. He is an elite skater of considerable size, having recorded nearly 50 points in his rookie NHL season. While his defensive skills and hockey IQ may not be the most remarkable aspects of his game, he exhibits game-breaking abilities, and his exceptional athleticism is likely to make him a competent professional defender. He is projected to develop into a genuine No. 1 defenseman.
Tier 2: NHL All-Stars
| RANK | PLAYER | POS | DRAFT POSITION | TEAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
This season, Matty Beniers experienced a slight dip in offensive production after winning the Calder Trophy last year, yet I remain a strong advocate for his long-term potential. His skill set, hockey IQ, work ethic, and capacity to perform at an NHL pace perfectly position him for success. While he may not produce flashy highlight reels, he appears destined to be a reliable, high-minute NHL center who can score and handle demanding situations.
Wyatt Johnston has emerged as one of the top young centers in the NHL, particularly following his impressive playoff performance. He showcases an abundance of skill, vision, and natural goal-scoring propensity. His creativity is exceptional, and he continues to develop his game at an exciting pace.
is a fiercely competitive center capable of performing well on both ends of the ice, despite being an average skater.
Tier 3: Bubble star and top of lineup
| RANK | PLAYER | POS | DRAFT POSITION | TEAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mason McTavish and Owen Power are both outstanding players occupying key positions. McTavish possesses impressive skill and an exceptional work ethic, while Power, despite being a towering defenseman, showcases remarkable mobility and an ability to generate offense. Although I don’t anticipate either becoming a major point scorer, both are capable of logging significant minutes in various situations.
Tier 4: Top-of-lineup player
| RANK | PLAYER | POS | DRAFT POSITION | TEAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Coming off a stellar rookie season split between the AHL and NHL with Dallas, Logan Stankoven has rapidly ascended the rankings. Although he is on the smaller side, he excels in nearly every other area, demonstrating significant speed and determination typical of a small forward. Given his offensive prowess, he has the potential to enjoy a lengthy career.
Dylan Guenther and Matthew Knies have also emerged as crucial contributors to their respective NHL teams this season. Guenther has always had a complete skill set, combining size and speed effectively.
His skill, particularly his shooting ability, has helped significantly elevate Knies’ status since his draft year when doubts about his skating and hockey IQ were prevalent among scouts. Although his speed remains a concern, he has demonstrated a stronger offensive game than many anticipated, and coupled with his size and competitive nature, he showcases an impressive power style of play.
Tier 5: Bubble top and middle lineup
| RANK | PLAYER | POS | DRAFT POSITION | TEAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The debate surrounding Jesper Wallstedt and Sebastian Cossa during their draft year was significant. For a couple of years after the draft, Wallstedt appeared to have a clear advantage; however, this past season, Cossa made considerable strides in closing that gap. While Wallstedt has proved to be a more steady and effective professional, boasting superior hockey sense, Cossa’s natural athleticism stands out as notably stronger. It will be intriguing to observe who surpasses the other in five years.
Tier 6: Middle-of-the-lineup player
| RANK | PLAYER | POS | DRAFT POSITION | TEAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Cole Sillinger, who joined the NHL at the age of 18 with Columbus, already has considerable experience. However, I have some uncertainty regarding his long-term prospects. His puck-handling abilities are commendable, and he plays with noticeable tenacity. Yet, I don’t view his playmaking skills as a significant strength, and he is a forward of average size and skating ability. Despite his early achievements, I see his potential fitting best as a third-line center, albeit a very likable one.
The depth of this draft class could pose a concern. Numerous players experienced shortened seasons or did not play at all due to COVID-19 restrictions. This particular age group was never the strongest to start with, making it interesting to note how few genuinely outstanding players emerged from this draft. When I evaluate how many players I anticipate will become ‘middle-of-the-lineup’ contributors or better, it is markedly lower than in the classes from 2020 to 2024.
Tier 7: Projected to play NHL games
| RANK | PLAYER | POS |
|---|---|---|
| DRAFT POSITION | TEAM | |
Tier 8: Players with potential game appearances
| RANK | PLAYER | POS | DRAFT POSITION | TEAM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(Illustration: Dan Goldfarb / The Athletic. Photos: Cooper Neill, Andrew Mordzynski / Icon Sportswire, Ric Tapia / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images)
Revisiting the 2021 NHL Draft: A Shift in Rankings and Player Projections
Understanding the 2021 NHL Draft Landscape
The 2021 NHL Draft marked a significant turning point for many franchises as they sought to bolster their rosters with promising young talent. As we revisit this pivotal event, it’s essential to analyze how player rankings and projections have shifted since then. With many prospects now gaining valuable experience in the NHL and AHL, a fresh perspective on their potential is crucial for fans and teams alike.
The Top Picks: A Look Back
In 2021, the NHL Draft featured a host of highly touted prospects. Let’s break down the top picks and how their rankings have evolved over time.
| Player | Position | Drafted By | Initial Ranking | Current Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Owen Power | Defenseman | Buffalo Sabres | 1 | 1 |
| Matty Beniers | Center | Seattle Kraken | 2 | 2 |
| Luke Hughes | Defenseman | New Jersey Devils | 4 | 3 |
| Brant Clarke | Defenseman | Los Angeles Kings | 5 | 5 |
| William Eklund | Left Wing | San Jose Sharks | 3 | 6 |
Player Development and Performance
The progression of drafted players is critical in evaluating the success of a draft. Here’s a look at how key players have developed since their selection:
Owen Power: The Defining Defenseman
Owen Power has remained a cornerstone of the Buffalo Sabres’ future. His combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ makes him a vital asset on the blue line. As of the latest season, Power has established himself as a top-pairing defenseman, contributing significantly to both offense and defense.
Matty Beniers: A Rising Star
Since being drafted second overall by the Seattle Kraken, Matty Beniers has emerged as a potential franchise center. His playmaking ability and tenacity on the puck have endeared him to fans. Beniers is already being discussed as a candidate for the Calder Trophy, showcasing the impact he has made early in his career.
Luke Hughes: Following in His Brothers’ Footsteps
Luke Hughes, drafted by the New Jersey Devils, has not only lived up to his draft position but also the legacy of his brothers, Jack and Quinn. His offensive upside and solid defensive game make him a player to watch as he continues to adapt to the NHL’s pace.
Brant Clarke: A Defensive Dynamo
Brant Clarke has showcased his versatility and creativity on the ice since joining the Kings. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining solid defensive responsibilities has seen him rise in rankings among defensemen in his class.
William Eklund: A Work in Progress
While William Eklund’s draft projection was high, his journey has been slightly more tumultuous. Adjustments to the North American game have posed challenges, but Eklund’s determination and skill set suggest a promising trajectory as he refines his game.
Shifting Draft Rankings: A Closer Look
As players evolve in their careers, draft rankings often shift dramatically. Evaluators and analysts are constantly reevaluating prospects based on their performance in junior leagues, international play, and professional leagues.
Factors Influencing Shifts
1. **Player Growth**: Many players mature and develop differently, affecting their on-ice performance and thus their perceived value.
2. **Injury History**: Injuries can derail a player’s momentum, resulting in a drop in rankings.
3. **Team Needs**: As teams build their rosters, their draft strategy may change, impacting how certain players are viewed.
4. **Performance Metrics**: Advanced statistics are increasingly being used to assess player performance, influencing rankings and projections.
Case Studies of Notable Prospects
Examining specific cases can shed light on the overall success of the 2021 NHL Draft.
Case Study 1: Cole Sillinger
Drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets, Cole Sillinger showcased his potential with a strong rookie season. Analysts originally ranked him lower but have since acknowledged his scoring touch and adaptability, pushing him into higher discussions regarding future star status.
Case Study 2: Carson Lambos
Carson Lambos, selected by the Minnesota Wild, faced setbacks due to health issues. However, his recent resurgence in junior leagues has led experts to reassess his potential, highlighting the importance of patience in player development.
Benefits of Revisiting Draft Projections
Revisiting draft rankings offers several benefits:
– **Informed Fan Engagement**: Fans can better understand player development and team strategies.
– **Team Strategy Insights**: Teams can analyze past decisions to inform future drafts and trades.
– **Predictive Analysis**: Ongoing analysis can help forecast player success and potential trade values.
Practical Tips for Fans and Analysts
1. **Follow Player Progression**: Regularly check player statistics and performance reports to stay updated on their development.
2. **Engage with Experts**: Join forums or follow analysts who specialize in NHL drafts to gain insights and diverse perspectives.
3. **Utilize Advanced Statistics**: Familiarize yourself with metrics such as Corsi and Fenwick to better understand player impact.
4. **Watch Games**: Observing players in action can provide a deeper appreciation of their skill sets and potential.
First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Scouts
Scouts play a crucial role in evaluating upcoming talent. Their experiences provide unique insights into the draft process.
Scout Insights: The Importance of Character
One anonymous scout emphasized the increasing importance of player character and work ethic in rankings. The ability to adapt, learn, and perform under pressure can often outweigh raw talent in determining long-term success.
On-the-Ground Observations
Scouts noted that many prospects displayed significant improvements in areas like skating and physical play during their first year in the NHL, impacting their projections positively.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
The evolution of player rankings post-draft illustrates the complexities of talent evaluation in the NHL. With the 2021 class beginning to make its mark, the ongoing analysis will undoubtedly shape future drafts and team strategies. Embracing this shifting landscape is key for fans, teams, and analysts as the NHL continues to evolve.
By revisiting the 2021 NHL Draft and examining the rise and fall of various prospects, we all gain a clearer picture of the future of the league and the young stars who will shape its trajectory.
