Assessing the NHL's first overall draft picks since 2020 reveals mixed results
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 1:09 PM
Last updated Jul 27, 2026
As of July 27, 2026, evaluations of NHL draft selections from 2020 to 2026 indicate varying success among first overall picks. Alexis Lafreniere is noted for improving after an initial slow start, while Owen Power faces scrutiny regarding his first overall selection. Juraj Slafkovsky is highlighted for a solid season, contrasted by Logan Cooley's standout performances. Connor Bedard is emerging as a key player for Chicago, and Macklin Celebrini is seen as a promising talent for San Jose. The draft class continues to be under review as teams assess their choices and player development paths.
- •Lafreniere has shown improvement with 28 points in 29 games without Panarin.
- •Owen Power may not be the best first overall pick based on current performances.
- •Slafkovsky had a strong season with 30 goals and 12 playoff points.
- •Bedard is set to play a central role for the Blackhawks this season.
- •Celebrini is recognized as a significant addition to the Sharks' young core.
- 1:09 PMYahoo Sports — Revisiting the 1st overall picks in the NHL Draft since 2020
"Not all of these picks were the right choice.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- NHL•Nov 10, 2026, 11:38 AMBruins' Strong Start Makes Thursday's Canadiens Visit An Early Atlantic Division Test
NHL•Nov 10, 2026, 11:28 AMIvar Stenberg leads the Sharks past the Islanders 3-2 in a shootout to stop their 5-game skid
NHL•Nov 10, 2026, 9:20 AMVegas plays Utah following Hertl's 2-goal showing- NHL•Nov 10, 2026, 9:10 AMOilers take on the Flyers following Draisaitl's 2-goal performance
- NHL•Nov 10, 2026, 9:10 AMSharks in action against the Penguins after shootout victory
- NHL•Nov 10, 2026, 9:10 AMFlames host the Rangers after overtime win
