New York Rangers Top Five Draft Busts

Jun 9, 2014; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers defenseman

(5) falls over the back of goalie

(rear) and sweeps the puck off the goal line against the Los Angeles Kings during the third period in game three of the 2014 Stanley Cup Final at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Bennett/Pool Photo via USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at previous draft picks chosen by the New York Rangers, it could leave you scratching your head as to what was the thinking behind the selection.

However, those players chosen may have been the best option at the time for the team. Then again, was it the best option at the time?

Particularly, some of the first-round picks over the years may make you kicking and screaming, when you realize what players followed the Rangers selection.

The team’s fortunes may have taken a different turn, and not be left wondering what if.

However, in recent years, the team has redeemed itself, somewhat, with their recent draft selections. Players, like Marc Staal, Chris Kreider, J.T. Miller have seen the team have great returns and started reversing the team’s misfortunes. With room to improve, they appear to be headed in the right direction.

But, its been those other first-rounders that just make you cringe and say WHAAAAAATTTTTT?

And with the Rangers not having a first round pick, as of now, this year, they’ll be looking in later rounds for those diamonds in the rough, i.e. Henrik Lundqvist.

We compiled a list, in no particular order, of the top five draft day busts in the first round for the Rangers. Looking back at the draft classes, it almost breaks your heart to read the names the Rangers passed over.

If you have ever played fantasy hockey, when it came to draft time, you had your list of available superstars to choose from. Well, that’s what you could make from the amount of names not selected. It’s a who’s who of today’s hockey all-stars.

As we go through our list, most of the players are not in the NHL or had short stints with one organization, or two, or three.

Sometimes, they just don’t pan out and need to be moved for a fresh start.