16th Overall, Minnesota Wild – (Originally Colton Gillies) Mats Zuccarello, LW (Undrafted)
Mats Zuccarello went undrafted throughout this draft but has become a fantastic performer for the New York Rangers. So much so that he jumps into the first round for the Minnesota Wild. Colton Gillies didn’t exactly work out, but Zuc on the Wild would be an interesting dynamic.
And Zach Parise wouldn’t have all the pressure on him to be the greatest left wing when he’s got a guy capable of a 60 point season behind him.
17th Overall, New York Rangers – (Originally Alexei Cherepanov) Carl Hagelin, LW (168)
Carl Hagelin ended up on the Rangers anyway, just several rounds later. Hagelin has turned himself into a worthy player, one who’s done some damage on the varied rosters he’s been on. Hagelin also has amazing speed, this far into his career. The Rangers traded him, but if they could have found a way to utilize that speed like Pittsburgh has, they would have an exceptional talent offensively. Which isn’t really their problem. Still, a player able to get over 30 points when healthy isn’t a bad addition.
Next: 2012 NHL Entry Draft Redo
18th Overall, St. Louis Blues – (Originally Ian Cole) Nick Bonino, C (173)
Bones has put up seasons of 49, 39, and 37 points. And that’s as a depth center. You know what the Blues could use? A depth center. And Nick Bonino needs to be given a chance at primary center. Why not on the Blues roster? Paul Stastny was hurt this season. There may have been no better flourishing ground for Bonino’s talent than St. Louis.
Plus, who doesn’t want that Hockey Night in Canada: Punjabi call on their team? Bonino Bonino Bonino Bonino Bonino on into eternity.
19th Overall, Anaheim Ducks – (Originally Logan MacMillon) Thomas Hickey, D (4)
Thomas Hickey found his way to the New York Islanders after being drafted by the LA Kings. Does his being drafted by Anaheim mean he becomes a Ranger? Perhaps. Or it means that Anaheim adds yet another piece to their already incredible defense. Cam Fowler, Sami Vatanen, Hampus Lindholm, Brandon Montour, Shea Theodore, that’s not good enough. No. The Ducks need to exchange Kevin Bieksa for Hickey. Because if the Ducks have Fowler, Lindholm, and Hickey, there’s no way they acquire Bieksa. There’s no need. Plus, Hickey has put up 3 20 point seasons.
20th Overall, Pittsburgh Penguins – (Originally Angelo Esposito) Ian Cole, D (18)
Ian Cole became a Penguin anyway. Now, he starts off in the black and yellow (it’s the same color as the Predators yellow, so not gold). The Penguins will need his defensive power throughout multiple playoffs. They get it sooner now, and Cole becomes somebody able to play with Kris Letang.
Those two develop chemistry over these ten years. Cole became his best self in his third season with the Penguins. Instead of 28, Cole’s third season becomes when he’s 23. More time to develop and adjust to a system/locker room.