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

NHL Unveils 2025-26 Season Schedule: The Final 82-Game Campaign Before Expansion
NHL

NHL Unveils 2025-26 Season Schedule: The Final 82-Game Campaign Before Expansion

The NHL has released its full 2025-26 schedule, marking the last 82-game season before the new CBA increases it to 84 games. Key highlights include the Olympics break and Alex Ovechkin's milestone chase.

Kaapo Kakko Secures Three-Year Deal with Seattle Kraken: A Game-Changer for the Team
NHL

Kaapo Kakko Secures Three-Year Deal with Seattle Kraken: A Game-Changer for the Team

Kaapo Kakko signs a three-year contract with the Seattle Kraken, promising to elevate the team's performance with his exceptional skills.

Yegor Chinakhov Seeks New NHL Chapter: Trade Request Amidst Columbus Blue Jackets Tensions
NHL

Yegor Chinakhov Seeks New NHL Chapter: Trade Request Amidst Columbus Blue Jackets Tensions

Yegor Chinakhov, the 21st pick in the 2020 NHL draft, has requested a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets following a season of misunderstandings with the coach.

Gabriel Vilardi's $45 Million Extension: A Game-Changer for the Winnipeg Jets
NHL

Gabriel Vilardi's $45 Million Extension: A Game-Changer for the Winnipeg Jets

The Winnipeg Jets secure forward Gabriel Vilardi with a six-year, $45 million extension, bolstering their roster for future NHL seasons.

Kris Sparre Takes the Helm: Boston Fleet's New Era Begins with AHL Veteran as Head Coach
NHL

Kris Sparre Takes the Helm: Boston Fleet's New Era Begins with AHL Veteran as Head Coach

Boston Fleet appoints Kris Sparre, former AHL player, as head coach, aiming to rebuild and contend for championships in the PWHL.

Lukas Dostal Secures Long-Term Future with Anaheim Ducks in Blockbuster $32.5M Deal
NHL

Lukas Dostal Secures Long-Term Future with Anaheim Ducks in Blockbuster $32.5M Deal

The Anaheim Ducks have locked in goaltender Lukas Dostal with a five-year, $32.5 million contract extension, signaling their commitment to his role as their No. 1 netminder.

Jaroslav Halak Bids Farewell: A Storied NHL Career Concludes After 17 Seasons
NHL

Jaroslav Halak Bids Farewell: A Storied NHL Career Concludes After 17 Seasons

Jaroslav Halak, renowned NHL goaltender, retires after a remarkable 17-season career, leaving behind a legacy of 295 wins and numerous accolades.

NHL 2025-26 Season Preview: Power Rankings and Summer Storylines for All 32 Teams
NHL

NHL 2025-26 Season Preview: Power Rankings and Summer Storylines for All 32 Teams

Explore the latest NHL Power Rankings and summer storylines for all 32 teams as we gear up for the 2025-26 season. Get insights on key moves, player updates, and Stanley Cup odds.

Top NHL Free Agents Still Available: Impact Players Teams Should Consider
NHL

Top NHL Free Agents Still Available: Impact Players Teams Should Consider

Explore the top remaining NHL free agents and their potential impact on teams as the free agency period continues.

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl Join Beer League Game: A Night to Remember
NHL

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl Join Beer League Game: A Night to Remember

NHL stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl surprised fans by joining a beer league game in Ontario, offering a unique and memorable experience for local players.

Gavin McKenna's Move to Penn State: A Game-Changer for NHL Prospects
NHL

Gavin McKenna's Move to Penn State: A Game-Changer for NHL Prospects

Gavin McKenna's decision to join Penn State reshapes the NHL prospect landscape, highlighting the evolving paths for young hockey stars.

2025-26 NHL Season Schedule Unveiled: Bruins, Penguins, Maple Leafs Lead Creative Reveals
NHL

2025-26 NHL Season Schedule Unveiled: Bruins, Penguins, Maple Leafs Lead Creative Reveals

The 2025-26 NHL season schedule has been released, with teams like the Bruins, Penguins, and Maple Leafs showcasing their creativity in unique reveals.

NHL's New CBA: Key Changes from 84-Game Season to Emergency Goaltender Rules
NHL

NHL's New CBA: Key Changes from 84-Game Season to Emergency Goaltender Rules

Explore the NHL's new CBA changes, including an 84-game season, emergency goaltender rules, and updated LTIR and playoff cap counting regulations.

NHL Highlights and Trivia: SportsCenter's 50-in-50 Week 3 Quiz
NHL

NHL Highlights and Trivia: SportsCenter's 50-in-50 Week 3 Quiz

Join SportsCenter's 50-in-50 Week 3 quiz featuring NHL highlights and trivia. Test your knowledge on hockey and other major sports events.

NHL Offseason Overhaul: Teams That Transformed Their Rosters for 2025-26
NHL

NHL Offseason Overhaul: Teams That Transformed Their Rosters for 2025-26

Explore how NHL teams reshaped their rosters this offseason, with key additions and losses that could define the 2025-26 season.

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.