Articles / Revisiting the NHL’s Compensatory Picks From Executive & Coach “Trades”: What Became of the Players Drafted?

Revisiting the NHL’s Compensatory Picks From Executive & Coach “Trades”: What Became of the Players Drafted?

T
The Hockey Writers
Aug 24, 2025 12:35 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by The Hockey Writers. Read the full original article here →

The NHL's compensatory picks system has generated a significant amount of discussion since its inception. When teams trade their coaching staff, they can sometimes receive compensatory draft picks based on the value of the coach. The article revisits numerous instances where executive coach trades have resulted in these picks, examining what became of the players that were drafted.

One notable case involves the Chicago Blackhawks, who traded coach Joel Quenneville to the Tampa Bay Lightning. This trade led to the Blackhawks receiving a first-round compensatory pick, which they utilized to select a promising young talent. This particular instance highlights how effective the system can be when leveraged properly by teams looking to build a strong roster through the draft.

Similarly, the article dives into trades involving coaches like Peter Laviolette and Mike Babcock, specifically looking at the teams that benefitted from these trades. The way these compensatory picks were incorporated into their drafts played a crucial role in reshaping their team’s futures, allowing them to bring in key players who contributed to their respective franchises.

Ultimately, the piece brings to light the tangible outcomes that can emerge from seemingly indirect transactions in the NHL. It urges teams to think strategically about how every decision, even those involving coaching staff, can influence their prospects in the draft and beyond.