NHL Draft Pools: The Basics

Not to brag, but in the twenty years or so that I have been entering live draft pools for the NHL regular season, I have finished in the top five eighteen times. 

Luck plays a very large role in the outcome of any hockey pool, because of injury and ice time, but here are a few relatively simple guidelines that have worked for me throughout the years:

1. First lines and power-play units

You will be surprised how many people make the mistake of choosing second or third line players from a strong team before first-liners from what can be considered softer teams. Remember that power play time and overall ice time are integral to your success. I would much rather have Kopitar on my draft team than Franzen for example.

2. Don't go with your heart, go with statistics

NHL fans tend to be the most team-loyal fans in all of pro sports. Don't be, if you want to win. Choose the best player available, regardless of the team they play for.

3. Stay away from injury-prone players as long as possible.

I'm not saying to never pick someone with an injury history, but beware! Gaborik is a great example, if he plays 80-plus games you are golden, but really only count on 65 to 75 games. Do the math with points versus games played, and figure out if he is the one you still want.

4. Rookies? Not for me.

Usually, they are too risky. Many are not use to playing in the gruelling NHL, and some coaches are unpredictable when it comes to their ice time. I don't pick a rookie unless they are still around about half way through the draft.

5. Coaching

Some coaches are more defensively-minded than others. Remember that the number of wins a team gets means nothing. You are looking for offensive players, whether your player's team wins 5-0 or loses 8-5.

6) Changes of scenery

In the later rounds, look for underachieving players on new teams. Sometimes a change of scenery is the recipe for a turnaround season.

I know that everyone has their own ideas when drafting, just wanted to share what has worked for me.

Cheers, and let the season begin!