Not to be too picky, but Eberle was taken 22nd in his draft year. They've only had 2 top picks in a row, although Gagner was 6th and Paajarvi was 10th.
I know, I know. It's just how good Eberle is. and they still can't win a playoff spot.
A little premature, lottery still coming up. I dont know about Grig so much anyways, this would be the first time I wouldnt be against trading down a few spots.
How many threads are going to be made about this. Every season is independent, the system is fine and the fairest way. This is how parity is achieved. Pure ignorance if people can't see this.
If I were Edmonton, I'd probably trade down a few spots where Dumba/Murray would still be avalaible to acquire other picks (probably in the 2nd round). I could see Toronto being interested a lot in Grigorenko, same with the Habs. (Assuming the drafting order stays the same)
The Oilers leading scorer on defense is Jeff Petry. He had 25pts this year. It only gets worse from there.
Not going to deny that Edmonton needs a D that will contribute offensively. Edmonton has quite a few holes to fill yet before they become cup contenders. Goalie: The Dubnyk of late may yet be a reliable starting goalie. Roy and Bunz are having good seasons. Defence: pool prospect pretty deep that just needs time to mature. Forward: 2C. Grigorenko could be that 2C.
2011: Adam Larsson, 4th Overall. ----> Straight to the NHL.
2009: Victor Hedman, 2nd Overall. ----> Straight to the NHL.
2008: Drew Doughty, 2nd Overall. ----> Straight to the NHL.
Well 2+ years away from being useful in the NHL (i.e. good enough to improve our team).
Well 2+ years away from being useful in the NHL (i.e. good enough to improve our team).
That could be a good thing in the long-run.
Drafting in the Top 5 next year, the Oilers could grab MacKinnon, Shinkaruk, Monahan, Barkov, Lazar, or anyone else that starts to look like they could be a #1C.
Well if the Oilers can snag Jesse Schultz on June 1 then they probably look to take a forward with there pick. Since they need help down the middle with size Grigorenko would be ideal.
There not to far off from having Klefbom, Mancarin, Gernat, Musil fighting for spots.
And if were an Oilers fan, I'd be hoping Tambellini would be looking at that as option number one.
It's hard to find a trading partner for that pick. basically you have to look for top line players who might be available at the draft and the only guy I can think of currently would be Rick Nash
1. Draft Grigorenko.
2. Play him alongside other talented kids.
3. Grigorenko acquires Calder.
4. Trade Grigorenko for young established d-man.
5. Dynasty
Drafting in the Top 5 next year, the Oilers could grab MacKinnon, Shinkaruk, Monahan, Barkov, Lazar, or anyone else that starts to look like they could be a #1C.
We can't have that mentality forever. Next year is the year to get out of the lottery.