Two 2011 NHL Entry Draft picks that are most likely to play in the 2011-2012 Regular Season
This year’s National Hockey League (NHL) Entry Draft was surely one of the most fabulous and entertaining, along with being riddled with talent and aptitude.
The previous few entry drafts have also been surprising, but not as much as this year’s as some of the world’s top prospects gathered in one arena at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Even being the top pick does not guarantee a spot on the roster which is the most surprising part of all.
Sometimes, many lower ranked picks end up being the most valuable later on when they prove themselves on the ice and play with confidence and courage.
What many young players do not realise is that it is not self-ability that ranks a player, but it is the ability to lead one’s own team to success that really proves greatness and thus creates a legendary player.
Many NHL players are great at whatever position they play, but it is their lack of lifting up their team that makes them suffer in the end.
Nevertheless, there are those players who present an immediate playing prospect due to their experienced mindset and capabilities of handling pressure on the major league ice rink.
Naming two of the players would be worth it, since the two teams to have these players are hoping to turn around their image from last year and this is one way to do it.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (1st Overall)
Without a doubt, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, presents himself as one of the most complete players overall and there should not be any hesitation in agreeing that he certainly is one of the best.
If he gets tensed on the ice, that is something that can happen to anyone, but if he plays in his natural style like he has been playing with Red Deer Rebels for a couple of seasons, then Edmonton Oilers can certainly expect a huge boost in its rankings.
Rookie players like Jeff Skinner, Logan Couture and many others that are changing how the game is played, did not show as much hope as Nugent-Hopkins does.
The 18-year-old scored 106 points with 31 goals and 74 assists last season for Red Deer, in only 69 games played, which just goes to show the calibre this player possesses.
Edmonton Oilers is truly hopeful of using him this upcoming season, but in the end it depends on Hopkins whether he is ready or not.
“If he can stand the rigors of the physical part and works to his strengths where he creates an advantage for us night after night, then he’s got an excellent chance to play this year. If not, after making an informed decision, we’ll wait on him”, said Oilers'
head coach, Tom Renney.
Gabriel Landeskog (2nd Overall)
Named as the most NHL ready player, Gabriel Landeskog, the next Swedish sensation picked as the second overall by Colorado Avalanche, has a lot to prove when he gets a chance on the ice which is highly likely.
His experienced mindset and physically fit frame are signalling an early entry into the professional NHL scene. If anyone is to bet on which pick will play first in the NHL, it should certainly be Landeskog.
Landeskog’s way of playing and developing himself over the years are proof of the Swedish player all about being the best at what he does.
He spent time away from family just to play hockey and continue striving at the game.
"I felt it was the right thing to do for my development", Landeskog said. "I'd been over three or four times for tournaments, but it was the first time I was by myself. I lived with a billet family that really took care of me. I loved it there”, said Landeskog.
He picked up 66 points with 36 goals and 30 assists in 53 games with the Kitchener team in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
Both players are certainly very hopeful of making an impact when they begin playing, probably even more than their teams. It will be a electrifying moment to see them playing when the regular season begins in October.
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