The 2019 NHL draft pick order shaped the next generation of National Hockey League talent, with teams balancing patience, need, and upside. Understanding how each selection slot connected to prospects, trade scenarios, and long-term roster building remains relevant for analysts and fans.
Below is a detailed overview of the 2019 draft order, including structured data and key narratives that influenced how teams approached each slot.
| Pick | Team | Player | Position | College/League |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Detroit Red Wings | Dylan Larkin | C | Wisconsin (NCAA) |
| 2 | San Jose Sharks | Tomas Hertl | C | HC Slovan Bratislava (KHL) |
| 3 | Buffalo Sabres | Rasmus Dahlin | D | Frölunda HC (SHL) |
| 4 | Toronto Maple Leafs | William Nylander | RW | Modo Hockey (SHL) |
| 5 | New York Islanders | Auston Matthews | C | ZSC Lions (NL) |
Early Picks and Lottery Outcomes
How Teams Navigated the Top Five
The early part of the 2019 NHL draft pick order was defined by Detroit securing first overall after a strong season, while San Jose capitalized on a high pick by selecting Tomas Hertl. Buffalo used third overall to draft D-man Rasmus Dahlin, a generational defense prospect, and Toronto turned fourth into William Nylander, who quickly became an elite goal scorer. New York Islanders selected Auston Matthews with the fifth overall pick, reinforcing their offensive firepower despite earlier trade activity that moved their original pick.
Mid-Round Strategy and Trades
How Teams Found Hidden Value
As the 2019 NHL draft pick order extended into rounds two through five, teams increasingly used trades to address positional weaknesses. Midround deals allowed clubs to move up or accumulate additional picks, targeting prospects who might have slipped due to team-specific needs. The ability to package prospects and conditional picks created fluidity in the board, giving organizations flexibility to balance short-term competitiveness with future asset management.
International Prospects and Draft Trends
Scouting Beyond North America
The 2019 NHL draft pick order heavily featured European talent, with clubs recognizing the depth of skill leagues such as the SHL and KHL. Teams allocated more resources to international scouting, focusing on puck control, hockey IQ, and two-way play. This shift influenced not only evaluations but also how teams projected development curves, especially for high-end offensive players who thrived in different systems.
Long-Term Roster Impact
Building Through Multiple Draft Cycles
Selecting high in the 2019 NHL draft pick order allowed several franchises to construct core pieces for the 2020s. Detroit paired Larkin with a strong supporting cast around him, while San Jose leaned on Hertl as an offensive centerpiece. Buffalo and Toronto invested in young stars with significant upside, banking on development timelines that aligned with their organizational windows. The Islanders continued building around Matthews, using depth pieces acquired through earlier transactions to complement elite scorers.
Key Takeaways
- Analyze early-round picks to understand long-term organizational direction.
- Monitor trades before and during the draft to see how value shifts across the board.
- Compare international prospects to North American prospects to gauge development potential.
- Use historical context from past drafts to anticipate how current selections may pan out.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which teams had multiple picks in the first round of the 2019 NHL draft?
Several teams held multiple first-round selections, allowing them to address multiple positions or add flexibility through trades. These organizations used their depth to target complementary prospects rather than reaching for a single star.
How did trades before the 2019 NHL draft pick order affect team positioning?
Pre-draft deals reshaped the visible board, enabling teams to move into or out of specific slots based on strategic priorities. Some clubs accepted lower picks to acquire established NHLers or younger assets, while others moved up to secure particular prospects they believed were undervalued.
What role did Central Scouting final rankings play in the 2019 NHL draft pick order decisions?
Final rankings provided a comparative framework for evaluating skill sets, intangibles, and risk factors. Teams analyzed these reports alongside their own evaluations to confirm selections or justify deviations when pursuing unique projects.
How did rule changes or draft eligibility influence the 2019 NHL draft pick order strategy?
Eligibility adjustments and timing considerations altered how teams approached trade windows and negotiation tactics. Organizations planned around potential rule impacts, ensuring they maintained enough flexibility to react to other clubs' moves while protecting their own portfolio of picks.