The 2014 NHL Entry Draft was held on June 27–28, 2014, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It's been over a decade since these young players heard their names called, and their careers have taken vastly different paths. Here's a look at the top 10 picks and where they are now:
1. Aaron Ekblad (Florida Panthers): Selected first overall by the Florida Panthers, Ekblad immediately stepped into the NHL and has been a mainstay on their blue line ever since. He has developed into a top-pairing defenseman, known for his offensive capabilities and physical presence. Ekblad has had some injury troubles throughout his career, but when healthy, he remains a crucial part of the Panthers' success and is considered a leader on the team. He continues to play for the Florida Panthers.
2. Sam Reinhart (Buffalo Sabres): Drafted second overall by the Buffalo Sabres, Reinhart spent several years in Buffalo before being traded to the Florida Panthers in 2021. While he showed flashes of potential with the Sabres, he has since blossomed into a consistent offensive threat with the Panthers. Reinhart is a versatile forward capable of playing center or wing, and his offensive production has steadily increased since joining Florida.
3. Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers): The third overall pick by the Edmonton Oilers, Draisaitl has become one of the NHL's biggest stars. After a couple of seasons of adjustment, Draisaitl exploded offensively and has consistently been among the league's top scorers. Forming a dynamic duo with Connor McDavid, Draisaitl has won the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player and the Art Ross Trophy as the leading scorer. He's a dominant force and a cornerstone of the Oilers franchise.
4. Sam Bennett (Calgary Flames): Selected fourth overall by the Calgary Flames, Bennett had a somewhat tumultuous tenure in Calgary, never quite reaching the offensive potential many projected for him. After a few seasons of inconsistency, he was traded to the Florida Panthers. Bennett has found a new role as a gritty, two-way forward, providing energy and physicality to the Panthers' lineup.
5. Michael Dal Colle (New York Islanders): Dal Colle, drafted fifth overall by the New York Islanders, unfortunately, did not pan out as expected. He struggled to crack the Islanders' lineup consistently and spent a significant amount of time in the American Hockey League (AHL). Dal Colle's NHL career was short-lived, and he last appeared in the NHL during the 2021-22 season, appearing in one game.
6. Jake Virtanen (Vancouver Canucks): Virtanen, drafted sixth overall by the Vancouver Canucks, also faced challenges in establishing himself as a consistent NHL player. He showed flashes of offensive ability but struggled with consistency and off-ice issues. Virtanen's time with the Canucks was ultimately cut short, and he has since played in Europe.
7. Haydn Fleury (Carolina Hurricanes): Drafted seventh overall by the Carolina Hurricanes, Fleury has carved out a career as a depth defenseman. He has moved around to several teams. Fleury is known for his size and defensive capabilities.
8. William Nylander (Toronto Maple Leafs): The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Nylander eighth overall. Nylander is a highly skilled offensive winger, known for his playmaking ability and creativity. He has become an integral part of the Maple Leafs' core and a consistent scorer.
9. Nikolaj Ehlers (Winnipeg Jets): Ehlers, drafted ninth overall by the Winnipeg Jets, is known for his electrifying speed and offensive skills. He has been a consistent offensive contributor for the Jets, providing speed and scoring touch.
10. Nick Ritchie (Anaheim Ducks): Selected tenth overall by the Anaheim Ducks, Ritchie is a physical winger known for his net-front presence. He has played for several teams throughout his career, providing a physical edge and occasional offensive contributions.