Jesper Fast
The New York Rangers found a gem hidden in the sixth round of the 2010 draft. Picked 157th overall, Jesper Fast has defied expectations and battled his way into the NHL.
Like many European prospects, Fast had to earn his way onto the NHL roster while adjusting to life in North America. The normal path is via the AHL, and Fast was no different. However, his path took some twists and turns.
He scored a goal in his first game with the Connecticut Whale—and then injured his knee later in the same game. He didn’t play another game during the 2012-13 season, finally making his return the following fall.
But despite his relatively meager draft pedigree and season-ending injury, Fast bounced back. He impressed with 34 points in 48 games, earning a spot with the Rangers Black Aces for the 2014 Cup run.
The rest is history, as Fast has become one of the Rangers’ most versatile forwards, both at even strength and shorthanded.