Sport

NHL Teams' Biggest Draft Triumphs and Failures of the Last Decade

2025-06-21

Author: Charlotte

With the excitement of the Stanley Cup Final now behind us, all eyes are turning to the upcoming NHL Draft. To kick off the anticipation, we've compiled a list of each NHL team's standout draft successes and notable flops over the past ten years, highlighting the highs, lows, and everything in between from 2015 to 2024.

Anaheim Ducks: The Hits and Misses

**Best Pick: Troy Terry** A shining example of value, Terry was snatched up in the fifth round (148th overall) of the 2015 draft. Over the past four seasons, he has amassed 101 goals and 237 points, proving to be a crucial asset for the Ducks.

**Worst Pick: Jacob Larsson** Selected 27th overall in 2015, Larsson struggled to secure a solid role on Anaheim’s defense and has since played for the Senators and is now in Switzerland.

Boston Bruins: Foundation Players

**Best Pick: Charlie McAvoy** Drafted 14th overall in 2016, McAvoy has emerged as a cornerstone defenseman and is undoubtedly better than the three defensemen taken ahead of him.

**Worst Pick: Urho Vaakanainen** Though drafted 18th overall in 2017, Vaakanainen has settled into a minor role, falling short against other potential stars like Robert Thomas.

Buffalo Sabres: Major Value Additions

**Best Pick: Brandon Hagel** Discovered as a sixth-round gem in 2016, Hagel was mistakenly let go by Buffalo but has since become a 90-point player for the Lightning.

**Worst Pick: Alexander Nylander** Drafted 8th overall in 2016, Nylander managed only three goals in 19 games with the Sabres and now finds himself on his fifth NHL team.

Calgary Flames: Game-Changers and Draft Regrets

**Best Pick: Matthew Tkachuk** Selecting Tkachuk sixth overall in 2016 was a stroke of genius; his ability to produce during critical moments solidified him as a top-line player.

**Worst Pick: Tyler Parsons** Parsons, chosen in the second round, never suited up for the Flames, while others picked later such as Filip Gustavsson shone in the league.

Carolina Hurricanes: Rising Stars

**Best Pick: Sebastian Aho** At 35th overall in 2015, Aho has become a franchise cornerstone, on track to shatter numerous Carolina offensive records.

**Worst Pick: Jake Bean** The 13th pick in the 2016 draft hasn’t met expectations, especially unfortunate given the success of players selected afterward.

Chicago Blackhawks: Talent Evaluation