Lightning: 5 Worst ‘Yzerman-Era’ Draft Picks
T
The Hockey Writers
Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by The Hockey Writers. Read the full original article here →
The article discusses the five worst draft picks made by Steve Yzerman during his tenure as the general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Yzerman is widely regarded for his successful draft strategy, yet some choices have raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
One of the most notable picks discussed is the selection of Brett Connolly, who was chosen sixth overall in the 2010 NHL Draft. Expectations were high for Connolly, but he struggled to carve out a consistent role in the NHL and ultimately had a journeyman career, leaving fans questioning the decision.
Another significant miss was with the selection of Vladislav Namestnikov in the first round of the 2011 draft. While Namestnikov had some success, he never fully developed into the elite forward the Lightning had hoped for, leading to mixed feelings about the pick given the talent available at that time.
The article also highlights the selection of defenseman Slater Koekkoek, picked 10th overall in 2012. Koekkoek's career has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency, making it hard to justify this high draft position.
Lastly, Yzerman's decisions on later rounds are scrutinized, with missed opportunities to select more impactful players available during those drafts. These picks serve as reminders of the unpredictability of the draft process and how even the most astute general managers can miss the mark.
One of the most notable picks discussed is the selection of Brett Connolly, who was chosen sixth overall in the 2010 NHL Draft. Expectations were high for Connolly, but he struggled to carve out a consistent role in the NHL and ultimately had a journeyman career, leaving fans questioning the decision.
Another significant miss was with the selection of Vladislav Namestnikov in the first round of the 2011 draft. While Namestnikov had some success, he never fully developed into the elite forward the Lightning had hoped for, leading to mixed feelings about the pick given the talent available at that time.
The article also highlights the selection of defenseman Slater Koekkoek, picked 10th overall in 2012. Koekkoek's career has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency, making it hard to justify this high draft position.
Lastly, Yzerman's decisions on later rounds are scrutinized, with missed opportunities to select more impactful players available during those drafts. These picks serve as reminders of the unpredictability of the draft process and how even the most astute general managers can miss the mark.