Just as the Tampa Bay Lightning begin to sober up off the heels of their 2nd consecutive Stanley Cup victory, the NHL has not only added a new team, the 2021 NHL Draft is suddenly upon us as the 1st round commenced last night.

As I begin to sober up this morning, here are some things that stood out to me.

Michigan Michigan Michigan!

5 first round picks including 3 of the top 5 players selected. No NCAA program had ever had 3 players in the 1st round. The first teammates to go 1-2 in 50 years. The “Children of Yost” are here. Kudos Ann Arbor.
Trades Galore!

The Blackhawks and Bluejackets wasted no time in prime time, announcing a blockbuster deal that sent disgruntled Columbus Defensemen Seth Jones to the Windy City for offensive minded blueliner, Adam Boqvist and some picks, providing instant action to the broadcast.
Steve Yzerman Does It Again!

As fabulous a player as Stevie Y was he is proving to be just as magical at compiling a roster. The Red Wings Snagged 6-4 defenseman Simon Edvinsson with the No. 6 pick and 6-6 goaltender Sebastian Cossa with the 15th pick, after swinging a deal to move up from 23. Victor Hedman and Andrei Vasilevskiy 2.0 in Hockeytown
I Like the Seattle Kraken Uniforms!

At first being the old curmudgeon that I am, I was skeptical about the newest NHL teams look. I became mildly infatuated with the sweater after watching the expansion draft coverage and upon seeing the lettering and numbering, i fell in love. Can’t wait to see them in action.
USA! USA! USA!

Six American’s were drafted in the first round with two players going in the top four as Matty Beniers (Seattle) Luke Hughes (New Jersey) went 2 and respectively. It’s obvious a new wave of American skaters will have a huge impact on the NHL landscape.
Hughes Family Dynasty!

Luke Hughes joins his two bro’s in the NHL, joining Jack in New Jersey. Brother Quinn, was selected No. 7 by the Canucks in the 2018 NHL Draft, 3 bro’s, 3 first round picks. This Sounds like a John Hughes Movie and i love it! Watch out Manning’s