For the most part, when a player joins the NHL there is a steep learning curve. One of the most oft-cited remarks is just how much faster the speed of the game is.

Not only are they forced to deal with the speed of the game, it’s doubtful that they have faced opponents of that size and skill level. To join the NHL as a fairly mature player has to be tough, but to do so as a college-age player must be even more daunting.

Yet, there are players that take that leap every year, moving straight to the NHL when they are barely old enough to vote or legally drink. And not only do they make that leap, they excel.

What follows is an appreciation of the top players in that category—the young men that represent the best 21 and under players currently playing in the NHL.

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