Top NHL Draft Picks: A Legacy of Excellence from Ovechkin to Celebrini

Explore the history of NHL's No. 1 draft picks, from legendary players like Alexander Ovechkin to rising stars like Macklin Celebrini.

The Legacy of NHL's No. 1 Draft Picks

The NHL draft has been a cornerstone of the league's success, bringing in some of the most talented players in hockey history. From the first-ever draft pick in 1963 to the latest stars, the No. 1 pick has always been a symbol of hope and potential for NHL teams.

Historical Highlights

  • 1963: Garry Monahan became the first-ever No. 1 pick by the Montreal Canadiens. Although he spent only two seasons with the Canadiens, Monahan had a respectable career spanning 12 seasons.
  • 2004: Alexander Ovechkin was selected by the Washington Capitals. Ovechkin has since become one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history.
  • 2015: Connor McDavid was picked by the Edmonton Oilers. McDavid is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world today.
  • 2024: Macklin Celebrini was chosen by the San Jose Sharks. Celebrini is expected to be a future star in the league.

Notable No. 1 Picks

Here’s a list of some of the most notable No. 1 overall picks in NHL history:

  • 2023: Connor Bedard, Chicago Blackhawks
  • 2020: Alexis Lafreniere, New York Rangers
  • 2019: Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils
  • 2015: Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers
  • 2005: Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins
  • 2004: Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals
  • 1984: Mario Lemieux, Pittsburgh Penguins

Future Prospects

The 2025 NHL draft, set to be held on June 27-28 at LA Live's Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, will add another name to this prestigious list. The anticipation is high as teams look to secure the next franchise player.

Conclusion

The No. 1 draft pick in the NHL is more than just a selection; it’s a legacy. From Garry Monahan to Macklin Celebrini, these players have shaped the history of the league and continue to inspire future generations of hockey stars.

What to Read Next

2025-26 NHL Fantasy Hockey Rankings: Top Players to Watch and Draft Strategies
NHL

2025-26 NHL Fantasy Hockey Rankings: Top Players to Watch and Draft Strategies

Get ahead in your 2025-26 NHL fantasy hockey league with expert rankings, top player insights, and draft strategies to dominate your season.

Colorado Avalanche Bolsters Coaching Staff with Former Seattle Kraken Head Coach Dave Hakstol
NHL

Colorado Avalanche Bolsters Coaching Staff with Former Seattle Kraken Head Coach Dave Hakstol

The Colorado Avalanche have added former Seattle Kraken head coach Dave Hakstol to their coaching staff to enhance their power-play performance.

NHL Offseason Report Card 2025: Team Grades and Key Moves
NHL

NHL Offseason Report Card 2025: Team Grades and Key Moves

Explore the comprehensive report card for all 32 NHL teams' offseason moves, including trades, free agency signings, and overall team grades for 2025.

From New York to Michigan: Dive into Week 2 of SportsCenter's 50-in-50 State Sports Trivia Challenge
NHL

From New York to Michigan: Dive into Week 2 of SportsCenter's 50-in-50 State Sports Trivia Challenge

Join SportsCenter's 50-in-50 journey as we explore state-specific sports trivia, from New York's hot dog eating contest to Michigan's pickleball tournament.

2025 NHL Free Agency: Key Trends and Lessons from the First Wave
NHL

2025 NHL Free Agency: Key Trends and Lessons from the First Wave

Explore the major trends and lessons from the 2025 NHL free agency first wave, including the impact of the rising salary cap and why many players chose to re-sign with their current teams.

Philadelphia Flyers Secure Dan Vladar with a 2-Year Deal to Strengthen Goaltending
NHL

Philadelphia Flyers Secure Dan Vladar with a 2-Year Deal to Strengthen Goaltending

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed goaltender Dan Vladar to a two-year contract, aiming to bolster their goaltending duo for the upcoming NHL seasons.

Detroit Red Wings Bolster Offense with James van Riemsdyk Signing
NHL

Detroit Red Wings Bolster Offense with James van Riemsdyk Signing

The Detroit Red Wings have signed veteran forward James van Riemsdyk to a one-year deal, aiming to strengthen their offense and end a nine-year playoff drought.

Brock Boeser Secures Future with Vancouver Canucks: A New Seven-Year Deal
NHL

Brock Boeser Secures Future with Vancouver Canucks: A New Seven-Year Deal

Brock Boeser and the Vancouver Canucks finalize a seven-year contract, securing his role as a key player in the team's future.

NHL 2025 Free Agency and Trade Tracker: Key Signings and Big Moves Analyzed
NHL

NHL 2025 Free Agency and Trade Tracker: Key Signings and Big Moves Analyzed

Stay updated with the latest NHL 2025 free agency signings and trades. Detailed analysis on key player movements and team strategies.

Ultimate Guide to Watching NHL Free Agent Frenzy 2025 on ESPN+ and Disney+
NHL

Ultimate Guide to Watching NHL Free Agent Frenzy 2025 on ESPN+ and Disney+

Discover how to watch the NHL Free Agent Frenzy 2025 on ESPN+ and Disney+, featuring live coverage, key player signings, and exclusive insights.

NHL Free Agency 2025: Strategies for Each Team to Achieve an A+ Offseason
NHL

NHL Free Agency 2025: Strategies for Each Team to Achieve an A+ Offseason

Explore how each NHL team can maximize their offseason moves to strengthen their roster and aim for the Stanley Cup in 2025.

2025 NHL Free Agency: Analyzing Aaron Ekblad's Contract Extension with the Florida Panthers
NHL

2025 NHL Free Agency: Analyzing Aaron Ekblad's Contract Extension with the Florida Panthers

Explore the details and implications of Aaron Ekblad's contract extension with the Florida Panthers during the 2025 NHL Free Agency period.

Morgan Geekie Secures $33 Million Deal with Boston Bruins After Stellar Season
NHL

Morgan Geekie Secures $33 Million Deal with Boston Bruins After Stellar Season

Boston Bruins' Morgan Geekie signs a six-year, $33 million contract following a standout season with career-high goals and points.

Glen Gulutzan Returns as Dallas Stars Head Coach: A New Era Begins
NHL

Glen Gulutzan Returns as Dallas Stars Head Coach: A New Era Begins

Glen Gulutzan returns as the Dallas Stars head coach after 12 years, aiming to lead the team to the Stanley Cup with a talented roster.

Claude Giroux Re-Signs with Ottawa Senators: A Strategic One-Year Deal for the Veteran Forward
NHL

Claude Giroux Re-Signs with Ottawa Senators: A Strategic One-Year Deal for the Veteran Forward

Claude Giroux continues his impactful journey with the Ottawa Senators, signing a one-year deal to boost the team's playoff ambitions.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.