Revisiting the 1st overall picks in the NHL Draft since 2020

Evaluating the top overall picks and their current standing in their draft class. Some players have quickly made their mark, while others have had slower NHL starts. Their performance trends highlight player development and factors influencing success. Some have emerged as franchise players, while others have encountered obstacles to their growth. Let’s take a look at whether or not their teams made the right choice at number one overall.

Apr 5, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers left wing Alexis Lafreniere (13) skates against the Washington Capitals during the second period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images

Alexis Lafreniere has started slowly in his opportunity in New York. When Artemi Panarin left, Lafreniere seized his opportunity and recorded 28 points in 29 games without him. Can Lafreniere finally seize his moment?

Owen Power has been a good player for his time in Buffalo, but would he still be the first pick? Probably not. Names like Wyatt Johnston, Dylan Guenther, and even Matthew Knies all could have gone ahead of him.

Juraj Slafkovsky has put together some solid seasons with Montreal and is coming off a 30-goal season. In the playoffs, he put up 12 points, and Montreal had a very solid season. But Logan Cooley has been a stellar player for Utah. Cooley has been the most impactful player amongst this class, which gives him the number one ranking.

Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) looks on during the third period against the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

Connor Bedard is the new era of Chicago Blackhawks hockey. His team needs more playmakers around him, but for what Bedard is working with, he is doing very well. Adding Patrick Kane should be fun to watch this season too.

No questions asked here. Macklin Celebrini has been an awesome player to watch for San Jose, and with their young core, they can be a dangerous team in the Western Conference this season. Great selection for the Sharks.

Matthew Schaefer, at his age, is doing elite things. His rookie season was historical and is the most valuable piece to this franchise already. There’s tons of stuff to like about Schaefer’s game, and he elevates everyone around him.
Toronto Maple Leafs | 2026

Jun 26, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA; Gavin McKenna poses with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and singer Justin Bieber after being selected with the first pick in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

Gavin McKenna is a standout player with exceptional playmaking skills, making him a valuable asset for the Maple Leafs. Ivar Stenberg was another top contender, as both players have significant potential.

Numerous draft picks have the potential to transform a franchise, while some may lead to second-guessing your choices in the future. Securing the top pick in the draft lottery is a tremendous opportunity, and selecting an exceptional player adds both excitement and pressure.