The 2012 NHL Entry Draft, held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, wasn't just any draft; it was a pool teeming with potential, albeit one that required a keen eye to navigate. While some top picks like Nail Yakupov didn't pan out, history reveals several remarkable "steals"—players drafted later than their ultimate value suggested. Identifying these steals requires evaluating players relative to their draft position and the impact they've had on their teams and the league.
One of the most glaring steals from the 2012 draft is Connor Hellebuyck, a dominant force in goal for the Winnipeg Jets. Drafted 130th overall, Hellebuyck has become a cornerstone for the Jets, consistently providing them with stellar goaltending. His performance has not only solidified his place as one of the league's top goalies but also made him a perennial Vezina Trophy contender. Hellebuyck's impact on the Jets is undeniable, as he has often single-handedly kept them competitive.
Andrei Vasilevskiy represents another significant win for the Tampa Bay Lightning, who selected him 19th overall. Vasilevskiy has since become one of the NHL's premier goaltenders, leading the Lightning to multiple Stanley Cups and earning a Vezina Trophy. His athleticism, size, and confidence make him a formidable presence in net, and his performance far exceeds the expectations typically associated with a late first-round pick.
Filip Forsberg, originally drafted 11th overall by the Washington Capitals but quickly traded to the Nashville Predators, has blossomed into a consistent first-line forward. Known for his scoring touch and playmaking ability, Forsberg has become a key offensive weapon for the Predators. While he was drafted relatively high, his impact and consistent production arguably surpass that of others picked ahead of him, making him a steal in retrospect.
Jaccob Slavin, selected 120th overall by the Carolina Hurricanes, has quietly become one of the league's most reliable defensemen. Known for his exceptional defensive play, hockey IQ, and ability to log significant minutes, Slavin is a cornerstone of the Hurricanes' blueline. His steady presence and understated excellence make him an invaluable asset and a clear steal from the later rounds of the draft.
Hampus Lindholm, picked 6th overall by the Anaheim Ducks, has proven to be a solid top-four defenseman. While Lindholm was a high pick, he has consistently delivered strong defensive play and contributed offensively. His reliability and all-around game justify his draft position, especially when compared to some of the players selected in the top 5 that year.
The 2012 NHL Draft serves as a reminder that draft position isn't everything. While some early picks become stars, hidden gems can be found in the later rounds. Hellebuyck and Slavin exemplify this, having exceeded all expectations to become elite players. Vasilevskiy and Forsberg, while higher picks, have also provided tremendous value and outperformed many of their peers selected earlier in the draft. These "steals" highlight the importance of scouting, player development, and a bit of luck in building a successful NHL team.
