Redrafting the Top 10 Picks of the 2018 NHL Draft: The 2018 NHL Draft was essential for franchises seeking to build out their rosters with fresh talent. While it didn’t boast instant star power like previous drafts, it produced many notable NHL players who have flourished over time – among many NHL best picks. Five years after that draft’s release date, player growth data is being utilized. We take an in-depth look back into the redrafting of its top ten picks from that draft.
1. Redrafting the Top 10 Picks of the 2018 NHL Draft – Buffalo Sabres: Select Andrei Svechnikov, RW
In this reimagined draft scenario, the Buffalo Sabres strategically decided to prioritize offense by selecting Andrei Svechnikov with their first overall pick – even though Rasmus Dahlin was originally picked first overall and is an outstanding defenseman – instead. Due to Svechnikov’s consistent offensive prowess – four out of five NHL seasons as a 20-goal scorer with 39 assists to his name during 2021-22 alone – Svechnikov may provide significant scoring benefits that cannot be ignored by their rivals.
2. Carolina Hurricanes: Choose Brady Tkachuk, LW
After Andrei Svechnikov fell off their roster, the Carolina Hurricanes decided to fill their offensive needs by selecting Brady Tkachuk. Renowned for his intensity and solid offensive abilities, Tkachuk has quickly established himself as a goal-scoring machine, scoring 30+ goals consecutively and setting a career-best 35 total during the 2022-23 campaign alone. His ability to thrive in open ice conditions while adding value to Carolina’s relentless offensive strategy makes Tkachuk a natural fit with Carolina.
3. Montreal Canadiens: Acquire Quinn Hughes, D
Montreal Canadiens look to fortify their blue line with Quinn Hughes as the third overall selection. He is widely recognized for his exceptional playmaking abilities, having registered back-to-back 60-point seasons since entering the league at 19. Hughes makes an attractive addition to any roster and should make an immediate, impactful contribution as soon as he steps onto their ice.
4. Ottawa Senators: Secure Rasmus Dahlin, D
Ottawa Senators take an advantageous stance in this draft’s revamp, selecting Rasmus Dahlin with the fourth overall pick. Dahlin had initially been chosen as No. 1 overall in 2018, yet his development into an elite defenseman is evident over recent seasons; amassing 126 points in two seasons alone, Dahlin fits perfectly into their plans to be contenders and establish themselves.
5. Arizona Coyotes: Choose Jesperi Kotkaniemi, C
Arizona Coyotes addressed their scoring needs by selecting Jesperi Kotkaniemi with their fifth overall pick. the Arizona Coyotes elected Jesperi Kotkaniemi as Jesperi Kotkaniemi is still only 23 years old. He has shown immense potential at just that age and, more specifically, during his last two seasons with Carolina Hurricanes, recording 43 points during 2022-23 and contributing significantly towards their offense. His offensive prowess could bring valuable additions to their offensive lineup.
6. Detroit Red Wings: Select Evan Bouchard, D
The Detroit Red Wings recently secured Moritz Seider as their cornerstone defenseman and now have expanded their blue line with Evan Bouchard’s signing. Bouchard, known for his power play capabilities and fantastic shot from the point, has proven his offensive prowess by posting consecutive 40-point seasons – providing Seider with an offensive boost that creates a formidable duo on defense for Detroit’s blue line.
7. Vancouver Canucks: Acquire K’Andre Miller, D
As Quinn Hughes was unavailable in this redraft scenario, Vancouver Canucks prioritized strengthening their blue line by selecting K’Andre Miller. Renowned for his steady progression, outstanding defensive acumen, and offense contributions, he has become one of the premier top-four defensemen on his team; most notably, his 43-point season in 2022-23 is evidence of this potential stabilizing factor within their defensive unit.
8. Chicago Blackhawks: Choose Rasmus Sandin, D
Chicago Blackhawks chose Rasmus Sandin with the eighth overall selection to bolster their defensive core and take full advantage of Adam Boqvist being traded to strengthen the blueline. His growth over the course of this 2022-23 season and recent 15-point finish in 19 games indicates his potential contribution.
9. New York Rangers: Secure Joel Farabee, LW
The New York Rangers decided to add depth to their offensive capabilities with Joel Farabee as their ninth overall selection, who is known for his reliable goal-scoring. Since the 2020-21 season, he has scored 52 goals in 200 games, adding scoring dimension to Rangers’ middle-six forward group. Furthermore, Farabee’s potential to elevate his game further through skill acquisition further strengthens his appeal as a draft selection.
10. Edmonton Oilers: Acquire Noah Dobson, D
Edmonton Oilers complete their top 10 redraft selections by choosing Noah Dobson to strengthen their blue line. Evan Bouchard was already selected, but Dobson offers offensive presence from his defensive position, contributing 100 points over two seasons in 158 games played for Edmonton’s power-play unit while offering solid two-way play. He is seen as an invaluable addition by Edmonton.
Reevaluating the top 10 picks from the 2018 NHL Draft within the context of a sportsbook in Canada provides an intriguing perspective on how player development over five years can significantly transform franchise fortunes. When teams retrospectively assess their selections with the benefit of hindsight, the star power within this class of draftees, which might not have been initially recognized for its star potential, becomes increasingly evident; the importance of patience and player development in the hockey landscape becomes more pronounced with each passing day.
