Regarding the Columbus draft history and the seemingly poor choices. I often wonder how much of this is really about poor player development vs poor drafting.
You can pick the right kid but ruin him by rushing him to the NHL or putting him in a position not to succeed. Look at those guys on the Columbus list that are considered flops or busts. In almost every case they were rushed to the NHL level as an 18, 19 or 20 year old.
I don't think it is a coincidence that Detroit is reknowned for their 'great drafting' and finding hidden gems. But, they also have a policy of not rushing their prospects. They make them play in the minors and develop before playing them in the NHL. So is it a great eye for talent, or the great system of developing their players that seems to bring them success.
