Assessing Don Sweeney’s Drafting Success: A Ranking of the Boston Bruins’ Entry Drafts

Boston Bruins: Ranking Don Sweeney’s Entry Drafts

Introduction

The Boston Bruins are gearing up for the 2023 Entry Draft, but due to a busy trade deadline, their first pick won’t come until the third round. As we await their selections, let’s take a look back at General Manager Don Sweeney’s previous draft classes and rank them accordingly.

8. 2019 Entry Draft

The 2019 draft class is viewed as one with several question marks. While first-round pick John Beecher has shown promise and could make the roster in the upcoming season, the rest of the picks have been less successful. Quinn Olson, Roman Bychikov, Matias Mantykivi, and Jake Schmaltz have yet to make a significant impact, making this draft class somewhat of a miss.

7. 2018 Entry Draft

The 2018 draft class hasn’t fared much better. Jakub Lauko is the only player from this group who has seen significant playing time with the Bruins. Defenseman Axel Andersson was traded, Curtis Hall is in Providence, Dustyn McFaul just finished his college career, and Pavel Shen is playing in the KHL. Lauko’s success highlights the overall lackluster performance of this draft class.

6. 2017 Entry Draft

The 2017 draft class had some hits and misses. While first-round pick Urho Vaakanaienen was part of a trade and Jack Studnicka was sent to Vancouver, the standout pick from this class is goalie Jeremy Swayman. Swayman has shown tremendous potential and is expected to be a key player in the Bruins’ future. The other picks have yet to make a significant impact.

5. 2015 Entry Draft

The 2015 draft class had its share of disappointments, but also some notable successes. Jakub Zboril, Jake DeBrusk, and Brandon Carlo have become key contributors to the Bruins’ lineup. However, Zach Senyshyn’s time with the team was short-lived, and other picks like Jeremy Lauzon and Dan Vladar have moved on to other teams. Overall, this draft class had a mix of hits and misses.

4. 2022 Draft Class

The 2022 draft class shows promise despite not having a first-round pick. Center Matthew Poitras had a strong season in the OHL, while Cole Spicer and Dans Locmelis showcased their skills in college and abroad. Frederic Brunet and Reid Dyck provide depth in key positions, and the seventh-round pick Jackson Edward adds another physical presence to the team. This draft class has the potential to develop into a successful group.

3. 2021 Entry Draft

The 2021 draft class is top-heavy and could see immediate impact on the Bruins roster. First-round pick Fabian Lysell spent a productive season in the AHL and has the potential to join the Bruins in the upcoming season. Third-round pick Brett Harrison had an impressive season in the OHL, and goalie Philip Svedeback and forwards Oskar Jellvik and Andre Gasseau showed promise in their respective college seasons. This draft class has the potential to greatly contribute to the team’s success.

2. 2016 Entry Draft

The 2016 draft class was a standout for Don Sweeney, with two first-round picks that have become crucial to the team’s success. Defenseman Charlie McAvoy has become a franchise defenseman, while Trent Frederic had a breakout season on the third line. Ryan Lindgren, Joona Koppanen, and Oskar Steen have also made appearances for the Bruins and contributed to their success. This draft class is one of Sweeney’s best.

1. 2020 Entry Draft

Despite having fewer selections due to the pandemic, the 2020 draft class has already shown promise. Defenseman Mason Lohrei, the top defensive prospect, has a strong offensive upside and could make his NHL debut in the upcoming season. Third-round pick Trevor Kuntar has excelled at Boston College and is projected to be a middle-six forward. Mason Langenbrunner and Riley Duran also offer potential contributions to the team. This draft class, although small, has the potential to be extremely impactful.

Conclusion

Looking back at Don Sweeney’s previous drafts, it’s clear that there have been hits and misses. While some draft classes have yielded key contributors to the team, others have fallen short. However, recent drafts have shown promise, with potential future stars emerging. As the 2023 Entry Draft approaches, Bruins fans can have hope that Sweeney will continue to make wise selections and build a strong team for years to come.

Advice for Don Sweeney

While it’s impossible to predict the future success of draft picks, there are a few key factors that can contribute to a successful draft. Firstly, thorough scouting and analysis of potential prospects is crucial. Additionally, building a solid development system that allows young players to grow and improve is essential. Finally, considering the team’s immediate needs and drafting players who can fill those gaps can greatly benefit the team’s success. By following these strategies, Don Sweeney can continue to make impactful draft selections for the Boston Bruins.