| 23 June 2009
We've seen the "popular pick" and the "safe pick," now it's time to explore the "boring pick," the player who may be skilled and one day become an asset to his team, but doesn't inspire much in the way of enthusiasm in the immediate future. Boring picks aren't necessarily lacking anything, and it's arguable that they indeed are just another form of the "safe pick," -- perhaps they are the safest pick possible -- but at the end of the day, sometimes a pick just elicits a "meh" response rather than Cup-hoisting dreams.
Dear Mr. "Boring Pick," I'm happy you're a member of the team and I wish you only the best, but frankly, you just weren't what I expected/wanted/thought we needed. Despite my indifferent feelings, I'm glad you're on our side. Good luck and here's to you being in a red sweater one day!
Nick Leddy - 5'11 - 180
Eden Prairie, Minnesota
What the scouts are saying:
"Leddy may be this year's version of Aaron Ness; a player that is silky smooth from the blueline that dominates over high school competition in Minnesota. Leddy may not have Ness' tremendous hockey sense, but he has better size and may be an even better skater. He has the ability to make an excellent powerplay quarterback some day." - Associated Content
"While many view Leddy as an offensive defenseman, he could potentially blossom into more of a two-way defenseman. His play is equally strong at both ends of the ice. Leddy combines superb offensive prowess with conscientious and responsible defensive zone play. He does an excellent job of taking away time and space from the opposition, and can also create it for both himself and his teammates." - Hockey's Future.
Why he's the "boring pick":
Leddy has the potential to be a great NHL talent, but he would also be entering an organization that is chock-full of defensive prospects (10 to be exact). The Capitals already have a top offensive defender in John Carlson, and Karl Alzner fits the bill as the up-and-coming defensive defender, so drafting Leddy is pretty much drafting for the future...the far "we aren't going to retain Mike Green" future. Leddy is about to start his college career at Minnesota and it could be nearly four years before he makes a serious bid to be on an NHL or even an AHL, roster. There's nothing wrong with drafting Nick Leddy, but with the Capitals so full on defenders and the long wait for his development, there just isn't that much to get excited about at the moment other than his great potential. Happy to have you, but not necessarily jumping out of my seat over it.
Odds and ends:
Won the "Mr. Hockey Award" in 2009.
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