HOF writer says there’s no Hall in ’11 draft

Much like people seem to forget about the fact that the Bruins are also picking 15th overall in this month’s NHL draft, it seems to go unnoticed that seeing the Bruins picking this high isn’t a one-time thing. After all, the deal that sent the Bruins first and second-round picks from Toronto (second and 32nd overall, respectively) also landed Boston the Leafs’ top choice next year, which figures to be high given that the Northeast division rival Maple Leafs have been slotted in the top seven picks the last three years.

Matheson says the next draft won't feature a wing like Hall

With the reminder that the Bruins might once again have the opportunity to land a star this time next year, it’s only natural that in the impossible debate between Tyler Seguin and Taylor Hall, one can find solace in thinking that whichever talent they don’t land, whether it be the center or the left wing, they can find next year. In a mailbag with readers, however, Hall of Fame Oilers writer Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal says that while there are elite centers to help ease the pain for whoever misses out on Seguin, they won’t find a wing with Hall’s capabilities next year.

Considering the Oilers might also pick high again next year, a fan asked Matheson if the hometown team could take Seguin and get a star winger in the 2011 draft. His response? “Short answer — no.”

Matheson names defenseman Adam Larsson (Sweden), centers Sean Couturier (QMJHL) and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (CHL), and defenseman David Musil (WHL) as the top prospects in next year’s draft. Should that change the way the Oilers and Bruins think when deciding who their man is this year? Likely not, as they shouldn’t bank on getting such a high pick next year, but it’s definitely something to chew on.