First Selections: ’05-’09

After taking a day off of this series, we’re back with the final 5 players drafted by the Red Wings in the years from 2005-2009. Once again, these are the first selections, not necessarily first round picks.

2005- Rd 1, pick 19: Jakub Kindl (D)

The 6’3″ defender from the OHL was drafted by the Red Wings in 2005 and his impressive offensive numbers in the OHL are just an addition to his defensive skills. Kindl has spent three full seasons in Grand Rapids and has adjusted over that span to the style of play in the league. Kindl has been touted as the next big thing in the Red Wings organization in terms of defenders and he may get his shot fairly soon as the contract extension he signed last summer was a one-way contract, meaning the Red Wings will likely have him on the roster at the year’s beginning.

Notable other selections: Justin Abdelkader (LW, 2nd round), Mattias Ritola (C, 4th round), Darren Helm (LW, 5th round), Johan Ryno (LW, 5th round)

2006- Rd 2, pick 41: Cory Emmerton (LW)

Emmerton was a scoring monster in the OHL, scoring 29 goals in 40 games for the Kingston Frontenacs in 2006-2007. Emmerton was drafted by the Red Wings and then spent his first full season in Grand Rapids in 2008-2009 and recorded 10 goals in 69 games. His production picked up last season with a 12 goal year but it looks like he will remain in Grand Rapids for a bit longer. Emmerton has potential but it may be a while before that potential is realized on the NHL level.

Notable other selections: Dick Axelsson (LW, 2nd round), Daniel Larsson (G, 3rd round), Jan Mursak (LW, 6th round), Logan Pyett (D, 7th round)

2007-Rd 1, pick 27: Brendan Smith (D)

The highly touted offensive-defenseman is set to make his debut for the Grand Rapids Griffins next season, following a brilliant NCAA career. Smith scored 15 goals last season during Wisconsin’s run to the NCAA Frozen Four finals. Smith signed a three-year entry level contract with the Red Wings and will hone his skills in the AHL with the Griffins next season.  Smith has good puck movement and skating skills as well as good stick work in the defensive end. Expect him to play for the Red Wings within 5 years (or less) and be a big part of the team.

Notable other selections: Joakim Andersson (C, 3rd round), Zack Torquato (C, 6th round)

2008- Rd 1, pick 30: Thomas McCollum (G)

McCollum was drafted out of the OHL with high expectations and split time between Toledo of the ECHL and Grand Rapids of the AHL during the 2009-2010 season. With Daniel Larsson bolting for Sweden, McCollum all of a sudden finds himself as the third in line for the Red Wings in net. McCollum has the makings of a potential starter in the NHL and will possibly see time with Jimmy Howard when Chris Osgood is no longer with the team. McCollum still has some issues to work on before he’s ready for that but he will more than likely get some time in preseason games. As a first round selection, the Guelph product has a high billing to live up to and it’s too early to tell whether or not he will.

Notable other selections: Gustav Nyquist (C, 4th round)

2009- Rd 2, pick 32: Landon Ferraro (C)

The son of former NHL player Ray Ferraro, Landon is known for his speed and scoring prowess-scoring 66 goals and 59 assists (125 pts) in 179 games with the Red Deer Rebels of the WHL. Ferraro saw two games with the Grand Rapids Griffins last year but will likely remain in the OHL for the next season. He’s got a tremendous set of skills but is a little bit undersized in terms of his weight. If he bulks up a bit more, he could be a real shining star for the Red Wings in the future. Kyle spoke with Ferraro back in January, you can find that interview here.

Notable other selections: Tomas Tatar (C, 2nd round)

Favorite draft pick from 2005-2009?