Top 3 best players that were originally drafted by the Capitals
#1 Alex Ovechkin
Number one is an easy choice. And he’s still here going strong. Alex Ovechkin was chosen at number one in 2004 and he almost got drafted by the Florida Panthers the year before. The Panthers tried to argue that Ovechkin had qualified for the draft because of a leap year. He didn’t and he ended up falling into the Caps lap a year later thanks to a dismal 2003-04 season that was their worst season since their expansion season.
Unlike the first draft pick in Capitals history who could’ve been the next Bobby Orr, Ovechkin was dubbed the next Wayne Gretzky and now he’s got his goals record in his sights looking to break the mark before hanging up his skates.
In his career Ovechkin has 780 career goals which is 114 away from Gretzky and 21 away from number two Gordie Howe. This comes after another 50 goal season.
Must Read. Top 3 worst draft picks in Capitals history. light
Looking back at that draft it was a pivotal time for the franchise. They had to make an investment for the future and he was easily the best player available at number one. The lottery ping pong balls went in their favor which allowed the Caps to draft this franchise changing player. The rest is history.