Over the next week, FanHouse will preview the top players and teams in next Friday's NHL Draft. This is the second post in a six part series.Last spring, the lottery balls bounced Tampa Bay's way and they were awarded the first overall pick. Former GM Jay Feaster selected Steven Stamkos with that pick, but has since resigned. His successor, Brian Lawton, has already made his mark on the organization with numerous trades during his first year and will have the chance to further shape the roster with the second overall pick next week.
Probably the biggest trade that Lawton is known for is the one that he didn't make last season. For months, rumors of Vincent Lecavalier being moved circled and carried on through the media but never came to fruition. Now, with Stamkos in the mix and looking like he could become the star he's been touted to be (23-23-46 in 79 games) and Lecavalier still on the roster, the Bolts have an overabundance of talented scorers.
Much of what the Lightning do with their pick will depend on what the Islanders do ahead of them with the first overall selection. If the Islanders decide to select Victor Hedman with the first pick, the Lightning may add yet another scorer to their roster.
Previous First Round Selections
2008, No. 1: Steven Stamkos
2006, No. 15: Riku Helenius
2005, No. 30: Vladimir Mihalik
2004, No. 30: Andy Rogers
Organizational Needs
The Lightning had five players score 19 or more goals last season and already have quite a few proven scorers. Despite finishing 25th in the league in goals scored, they actually have more pressing needs. They were 27th in the league in goals against and went through four different starting goalies during the year due in part to both poor play and injuries. Young prospects Mike McKenna and Karri Ramo struggled when given the reins this season but 2006 first round pick Riku Helenius is also on the way to help fix their netminding troubles. This team is in dire need of defense both on the blueline and between the pipes.
What's the Plan?
If the Islanders take John Tavares, it should be a no brainer for the Bolts to take Victor Hedman. However, if the Islanders take Hedman, the Bolts will be in an interesting position. They should take the best player available at that point (Tavares) but there could be a lot of teams interested in moving up to grab him. It would probably be in their best interest to seriously listen to those offers, but in the end, taking the best player available -- another potential franchise scorer -- is the best bet. Besides, if he turns into an All-Star down the road you can always trade him for defense.
