DraftNation's 2009 Consensus Mock Draft has been updated with 5 new mock drafts. As always, if you have a mock draft of your own that you'd like to submit, please email a link to beej@draftnation.com.
The New York Rangers 2007 first-round draft pick Alexei Cherepanov died yesterday near the end of a Russian league game. His death was because of a heart condition, but medical care is also being called into question. The New York Times has a nice tribute to him along with some more questioning of the medical care.
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ESPN.com has provided a great list of the recent number one picks in the NHL draft. It is a list that includes the games best players in Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin. It also includes two goalies who are two of the best young goalies in the game in Marc-Andre Fleury and Rick DiPietro. Overall this list proves that the draft has been very important for teams in building their franchises, especially now more than ever with the salary cap. Check out the list for a detailed analysis of the recent picks.
The NHL gave out their annual awards on Thursday. Those coming home with hardware included Washington Capitals Alexander Ovechkin, who took home the Hart Trophy for Most Valuable Player. Niklas Lidstrom of the Detroit Red Wings won Best Defenseman, Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils won Best Goaltender and Patrick Kane of the Chicago Blackhawks won Rookie of the Year.
Shane Christenson of Helium.com gives a breif breakdown of some of the NHL draft's top prospects. He informs about several European players who will more than likely be taken in the early first round and could even make a splash in the 2009 NHL season.