Washington Capitals: Grading The 2008 NHL Draft
Washington Capitals 2008 NHL Draft: Second Rounders
Just like in the first round, the Washington Capitals had two picks in the second round. Sadly, neither of their two draft picks that year panned out. They drafted defenseman Eric Mestery with the 57th overall pick and right wing Dmitry Kugryshev with the 58th overall pick.
Mestery never played a game in the NHL. Neither did Kugryshev. That’s disappointing to say the least, but the only two productive NHL player chosen with 10 picks of either of the two were Jimmy Hayes (60th overall pick) and Jori Lehtera (65th overall pick). However, it is worth mentioning that the 2014-2015 season was Jori Lehtera’s first in the NHL.
Hayes certainly isn’t a star. In 168 games, Hayes has just 66 points (30 goals and 36 assists). His career high in points? 35 this season. This season was also his first season in which he averaged over 15 minutes of ice time per game. That said, he is just 25 years old and I’m sure Trotz would like his 6’6″ frame. Certainly better than Mestery or Kugryshev.
Lehtera is pushing it, but at least he has a productive NHL season. He proved to be worth the wait with 44 points in 75 games for the Blues in a third line role for them. Considering the Caps lack of depth at center with Eric Fehr and Jay Beagle as free agents, it would be nice to have Lehtera.
The Mestery and Kugryshev picks don’t hurt too much because it’s not like Hayes or Lehtera are stars. That said, it still stings because at least both of them are regular NHL players.
HINDSIGHT: Should have drafted Hayes and Lehtera.
GRADE: C+
Next: The Fourth Round