The
2015 NHL entry draft came with an unusual amount of fanfare, largely because
the top two prospects were potential “gamechangers”. Not since the 2005 draft
that featured Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin have two players in one draft
been considered so special. These two future stars, Connor McDavid and Jack
Eichel, were selected by the Edmonton Oilers and Buffalo Sabres respectively. Centers
McDavid and Eichel, both only 19 years old, will forever be linked by their
draft status and have already shown they were worthy of the attention.
Edmonton’s
young gun, McDavid, has had a bit of a rocky rookie season. He was able to play
in only 13 games before breaking his left clavicle and missing the next 37. In
his limited playing time however, he has been nearly unstoppable. As of
February 29, he has 29 points in only 27 games and is scoring on an incredible
18.2% of his shots. The Oilers’ roster is filled with top young talent due to
their lottery luck, but McDavid is the true star.
Eichel
has been able to stay healthy the entire season, and is showing he was also
worthy of the top pick. On a team lacking many offensive
weapons, he has managed 41 points in 63 games. Not to be outdone by McDavid’s
success, Eichel has picked up his play significantly recently, scoring 25
points in his last 26 games. The Sabres were one of the worst teams in the NHL
the last two years, but Eichel is playing a major role in turning the franchise
around.
Unfortunately
for fans, the two play in different conferences and rarely meet head to head. The first such meeting will take place on March 1st in Buffalo.
McDavid was injured for the previous matchup between the teams on Dec. 4th.
Eichel scored in that game, but his team fell 4-2.
While
we won’t see them facing off a lot, we may see them as teammates soon. No,
neither one will be traded, but both could be on the 2016 World Cup of Hockey
under 23 team from North America. Taking place later this year, this tournament
showcases the best players in the world, and barring injury, it is a sure thing
that both McDavid and Eichel will make the squad.
Sidney
Crosby and Alex Ovechkin have been two of the premier hockey players for the
last ten years, but it will soon be time for them to step aside. With Connor
McDavid and Jack Eichel on the way, the game will be in good hands.
Labels: Eric Bokobza