Creating Controversy: Top Three Draft Picks

"Creating Controversy" is a new series that I am starting. I will try to write a new edition every Tuesday. Creating Controversy is a series that doesn't really need to be explained. I will be trying to stir up some arguments over different topics.

Tonight, I would like to begin with ARGUABLY (a word that I will use a lot in this series) the three best players in the NHL—Sidney Crosby, Alex(ander) Ovechkin, and Evgeni Malkin.

Now, these three players were not all in the same draft—but just imagine what it would have been like if they were. Malkin and Crosby would not be on the same team, and every team in the National Hockey League, even Detroit, would be blowing up the season just to get one of these players.

Today's controversy pot asks who you would draft first, second, and third if Malkin, Crosby, and Ovechkin were in the same draft. Here is what I say:

First Overall: Alexander Ovechkin

Ovechkin produces goals, points, and hits. As we all know, Ovechkin scored 65 goals last year and 112 points. Ovechkin is not afraid to absolutely lay someone out, and he can just flat-out wheel.

Second Overall:  Evgeni Malkin

This is where all of the controversy begins.

When you think about it, Malkin is a lot like Ovechkin.  He is with his team for the long term (as is Crosby), plays the point on the power play, has a great shot, scores goals, and puts up points.

Of course, I am not forgetting that he hits. The only thing that separates Malkin and the No. 1 pick is that Ovechkin is still a better sniper.

Third Overall: Sidney Crosby

The only full-time number-one centre on the list is made to set up plays. Yes, he does score often, and he is normally on the top power-play unit, but he is not a goal scorer.

Another thing that I don't like about Crosby—and here comes some more controversy—is that I find him a whiner.

I know that all of the Pens fans' out there are going to try and defend their captain, but how much does a little poke with the stick (or according to Crosby, a spear) hurt?

Every player has their own pros and cons, but those are my picks. I would like to hear yours. Please leave a (nice and non-insulting) comment, which includes your picks.