Reflecting on the 2016 NHL Draft
As 2026 approaches, it’s hard to believe that ten years have passed since the NHL Draft took place in Buffalo, an event that marked the beginning of many promising careers. Back then, the Buffalo Sabres were not even in the conversation as potential Stanley Cup contenders, and the focus was on players like Olli Juolevi, who has since become synonymous with disappointment as a draft bust. In revisiting this draft, we touch on how perceptions have changed and the trajectory of various players since that pivotal day in 2016.
Revisiting the Top Picks
Greg Wyshynski and Rachel Kryshak reflect on the past while analyzing a potential reordering of the draft based on performance over the years.
- Auston Matthews: The Toronto Maple Leafs undoubtedly still land Matthews at the top in a re-draft. The star forward, who has clinched the Hart Trophy and captained the team, is on track to shatter numerous franchise scoring records, solidifying his reputation as one of the most skilled players to don the Leafs’ jersey.
- Matthew Tkachuk: Arguably one of the most challenging players to face on the ice, Tkachuk’s fierce competitiveness and ability to influence the game make him an easy choice for the second spot, provided we momentarily ignore his eagerness to leave Canada.
- Adam Fox: Not far behind, Fox brings his impressive track record as a two-time Norris Trophy finalist. Assuming he wouldn’t confine himself to playing solely for the Rangers, he could easily be considered one of the top defenders from this draft, although his statistics have waned alongside the team’s performance.
- Charlie McAvoy: Competing closely with Fox for defensive supremacy, McAvoy may not have achieved as much individual acclaim, but his reliability in high-pressure situations makes him invaluable. Wyshynski and Kryshak debate which defenseman deserves higher placement, ultimately leaning towards McAvoy given his robust playoff experience and defensive skills.
- Tage Thompson: Initially overlooked, Thompson exemplifies a significant upward trajectory since he was a late-round selection. Now a key player for the Sabres, he represents a blend of size and skill that was once unforeseen at the time of the draft.
- Clayton Keller and Jesper Bratt: These two forwards exemplify the depth of talent from their draft class, both emerging as crucial players for their respective teams. Keller has showcased dual-threat capabilities, while Bratt has become a dynamic offensive talent, significantly contributing to the Devils’ success.
- Alex DeBrincat: Despite being a prolific goal scorer, DeBrincat’s overall impact on the ice has been questioned due to his dependency on playmakers, leaving room for debate on his placement within the re-draft.
- Mikhail Sergachev: Somewhat controversially, the Montreal Canadiens’ initial drafting decision is scrutinized as a lost opportunity, considering Sergachev’s role in helping the Tampa Bay Lightning to multiple championships post-draft.
Conclusion
As we navigate through the selections, it becomes clear that the 2016 draft was packed with talent that has shifted in valuation based on players’ on-ice performances and contributions to their units. Quick decisions made another five years ago may surprise some and warrant a reassessment as the league evolves. Overall, this analysis aims to illustrate the dynamism of player development in the NHL, illuminating paths not taken and futures altered by choice.
In a nutshell, as teams prepare for upcoming drafts, the memory of 2016 serves as an educating reflection, with Auston Matthews remaining the clear first choice, despite the competition bubbling beneath him.
