Worst top two picks in modern history? Redrafting the 2012 NHL Draft

The 2012 NHL draft saw several talented players selected, with Nail Yakupov, Ryan Murray, and Alex Galchenyuk being among the top picks. However, with the benefit of hindsight, it is clear that some players who were selected later in the class have turned out to be better players than those in the top 10. Let's take a look and redraft the 2012 NHL Draft.

A big top 10 NHL draft mix-up

1 - Edmonton Oilers: Filip Forsberg (Washington Capitals)

Filip Forsberg was originally selected 11th overall in 2012 by the Washington Capitals. However, based on his performance since then, he is a clear choice for the first overall pick in this do-over. He has been a consistent scorer for the Nashville Predators since his arrival in 2013, with four seasons of 25 or more goals.

2 - Columbus Blue Jackets: Tomas Hertl (San Jose Sharks)

Tomas Hertl has been a consistent scorer for the San Jose Sharks since joining the team in 2013. He has had several seasons of 20 or more goals and was named an NHL All-Star in 2019 for the first time.

3- Montreal Canadiens: Morgan Rielly (Toronto Maple Leafs)

Morgan Rielly has been a steady presence on the Toronto Maple Leafs' blue line since being selected fifth overall in 2012. He has developed into a top-pairing defenseman and has represented Canada at multiple international tournaments.

4 - New York Islanders: Teuvo Teravainen (Chicago Blackhawks)

Teuvo Teravainen has developed into a top-six forward for the Carolina Hurricanes since being traded there from the Chicago Blackhawks in 2016. He has had several seasons of 50 or more points and was a key part of the Hurricanes' run to the

5 - Toronto Maple Leafs- Jacob Trouba (Winnipeg Jets)

Jacob Trouba has established himself as a solid defenseman in the NHL since being picked ninth overall by the Winnipeg Jets in 2012. He was traded to the New York Rangers in 2019 and continued to be a top-pairing defenseman.

6- Anaheim Ducks: Tom Wilson (Washington Capitals)

Tom Wilson has brought a unique combination of physicality, skill, and energy to the ice for the Washington Capitals. He can contribute offensively, play solid defense, and intimidate opponents with his physical play.

7- Minnesota Wild: Josh Anderson (Colorado Avalanche)

Anderson has a rare combination of size, speed, and scoring ability, which has given him the ability to benefit multiple different franchises. He is a power forward who can dominate physically, create scoring chances, and finish with a deadly shot.

8 - Pittsburgh Penguins: Hampus Lindholm (Anaheim Ducks)

In this redraft, Hampus Lindholm is selected eighth overall. He has been a key part of the Anaheim Ducks' defense since his arrival in 2013, playing in over 500 games and earning a reputation as a solid two-way defenseman.

9 - Winnipeg Jets: Alex Galchenyuk (Montreal Canadiens)

Alex Galchenyuk, originally selected third overall in 2012, slides to the ninth overall pick in our redraft. He has had an up-and-down career, but has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his time in the NHL.

10- Tampa Bay Lightning: Matt Dumba (Minnesota Wild)

Despite inconsistency due to injury, Matt Dumba is a skilled two-way defenseman who can contribute offensively and play solid defense. He has powerful shots, good mobility, and the ability to make plays at both ends of the ice.