Oilers to Draft 1st Overall.

For the second straight year, the Edmonton Oilers will have the first pick at the 2011 entry draft in Minnesota.  The New Jersey Devils initially won the draft, and moved from 8th spot to 4th (the highest the winning team could reach) and as a result cemented the Edmonton Oilers to remain in 1st.  

Here is the list of the top 6 teams for the 2011 Entry Draft.

1) Edmonton

2) Colorado

3) Florida

4) New Jersey (lotto draft winners)

5) New York Islanders

6) Ottawa Senators

The speculation can now finally begin as to who the Edmonton Oilers will pick first at the draft.  At the moment, many people believe that it has come down to two players: Ryan Nugent Hopkins and Adam Larsson.

It is no secret that the Oilers are in the market for a goal scoring, first-line centerman, and Red Deer Rebel, Ryan Nugent Hopkins is on the top of scouting list.  Hopkins stands 6'0" and 160 lbs soaking wet and finished the year with 106 pts (not including play-offs). 

However, the Oilers are also kicking the tires of Adam Larsson who is currently ranked to go second by Scouting Services. Larsson currently plays for the Skellefteå AIK in Elitserien of the Swedish Elite League.  The Swedish defenceman stands at 6' 2.5" 201 lbs and appears to be ready to step into the NHL in time for the 2011 season.

Naturally, Steve Tambellini has been mum as to who he will pick, yet the aforementioned players could fit in well within the organization.  

Tomorrow: More about Ryan Nugent Hopkins 

Lastly it was a pleasure to meet actor/director Kevin Smith in Las Vegas Nevada. Kevin Smith is a huge Edmonton Oilers fan, and was seen at the NAB Show earlier this week, discussing about AVID Editing.  I managed to get a photo with Smith who was decked out in his Oilers clad.

Upon taking the photo with him, I said "GO OILERS" and he promptly laughed.