Two things stood out to me when researching the Capitals’ picks:
1. They passed over players such as P.K. Subban, Jamie Benn, and Jake Muzzin
2. Only Karl Alzner became a regular in the NHL

Picks:
RD 1- Karl Alzner, D, (5th overall)
RD 2- Josh Godfrey, D, (34th overall)
RD 2- Theo Ruth, D, (46th overall)
RD 3- Phil Desimone, C, (84th overall)
RD 4- Brett Bruneteau, C, (108th overall)
RD 5- Brett Leffler, RW, (125th overall)
RD 6- Dan Dunn, G, (154th overall)
RD 7- Nick Larson, C, (185th overall)

Analysis:
While Theo Ruth was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets for Sergei Fedorov at the 2008 Trade Deadline, none of the other selections are recognizable. Ruth never panned out for Columbus and ex-GM George McPhee’s track record of success in the draft seemed to disappear.

The good thing(s) that can be taken from this draft is that the Caps’ defense probably would not be as effective at shutting down opponents if Alzner had not developed into the shutdown defender he is today. Despite being selected eight years ago, Alzner is only 26-years old (27 on September 28th). He finished this past season with career-highs in goals, assists, and points. Alzner finished the year with 21 points; and contributed four more in the playoffs.

Even though Alzner has become one of the Caps’ best defenseman, the rest of his fellow draftees drops this grade down. Overall, GMGM did not have the success he’s known for in the draft. While not all blame is on him, the fact the team passed over Subban and Benn (two of the best players in the league) hurts their grade.

Final Grade: D-

Michael Fleetwod