NHL: The 30 best draft picks in NHL history (Updated 2023)

20. Best NHL draft picks in history: Cam Atkinson, Columbus Blue Jackets

Unfortunately for the Colombus Blue Jackets, they’re also one of those teams that haven’t done much of anything in over two decades now. No Stanley Cup championships, Division championships, nothing. But at least when it came to the NHL Draft back in 2008, they found a star in the later rounds to try and change all this disappointment.

With the 157th overall pick, the Blue Jackets selected right winger Cam Atkinson who before even stepping foot in Nationwide Arena, was being criticized by NHL analysts and pundits for his small size. At just 5-8 and 182lbs., many believed he was too short to be an effective winger and it inspired him to continue on his journey towards greatness.

Atkinson proved the naysayers wrong by showcasing his blazing speed, ability to shoot effectively, and continue making the Blue Jackets a playoff-contending team. So far in his career, Atkinson has over 230 goals, 200 assists, and over 450 points.

Watching him shoot the puck against some of the top goaltenders in the NHL has been a delight over the last decade. In 2021 Atkinson was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers and is hoping to bring all his playoff experience to the City of Brotherly Love.