The 2016 NHL Entry Draft was a landscape-shifting event that introduced several future Hall of Fame talents to the league. From the high-scoring prowess of the first overall pick to the defensive masterclasses of later selections, the class of 2016 has matured into the backbone of the modern NHL. Looking back with the benefit of hindsight, a 2016 NHL re-draft presents a fascinating exercise in player development and value. While the original order saw Auston Matthews go first to the Toronto Maple Leafs, the emergence of elite talents like Matthew Tkachuk and Adam Fox makes the conversation more competitive than anyone could have predicted eight years ago.
The Undisputed King? Auston Matthews at Number One
When the Toronto Maple Leafs selected Auston Matthews with the first overall pick in 2016, they were looking for a franchise-altering center. Eight years later, it is hard to argue that they got anything less. Matthews has established himself as the premier goal-scorer of his generation, recently flirting with the elusive 70-goal mark and collecting multiple Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophies. His combination of size, elite puck-handling, and a release that defies physics has made him the gold standard for modern NHL centers.
In any 2016 NHL re-draft, Matthews remains the heavy favorite for the top spot. Beyond his offensive output, his evolution into a reliable 200-foot player and a Hart Trophy winner solidifies his status. However, the gap between Matthews and the rest of the field has narrowed as other members of the 2016 class have reached their prime and led their respective teams to deep playoff runs.
The Rise of Matthew Tkachuk and Playoff Pedigree
If there is one player who has seen his stock skyrocket since 2016, it is Matthew Tkachuk. Originally drafted sixth overall by the Calgary Flames, Tkachuk has transformed from a high-end agitator into a legitimate superstar. His move to the Florida Panthers served as a catalyst for his career, where he led the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances, ultimately lifting the trophy in 2024.
Tkachuk’s value lies in his unique ability to blend elite skill with a physical, playoff-ready style of play. While Matthews may have the edge in pure statistical dominance, Tkachuk’s leadership and postseason success make him a compelling candidate for the number two spot in a re-draft. He has proven that he can be the heartbeat of a championship team, a trait that NHL general managers prize above almost all else.
Defensive Masterclass: Adam Fox and Charlie McAvoy
The 2016 draft was also exceptionally deep in top-tier defensive talent. Perhaps the most glaring oversight of the original draft was Adam Fox, who wasn't selected until the third round (66th overall) by the Calgary Flames. Today, Fox is a Norris Trophy winner and the quarterback of the New York Rangers' elite power play. His hockey IQ and vision are often compared to the all-time greats, making him a lock for a top-five selection in a re-draft scenario.
Similarly, Charlie McAvoy has outperformed his original draft position of 14th overall. As the cornerstone of the Boston Bruins' blue line, McAvoy has shouldered the burden of replacing legends like Zdeno Chara. His ability to impact the game in all three zones makes him one of the most complete defensemen in the league. In a re-draft, McAvoy would likely find himself off the board within the first five to seven picks, reflecting his status as a perennial Norris contender.
The Biggest Steals and Late Bloomers
No 2016 NHL re-draft is complete without mentioning the late bloomers who have redefined their careers. Tage Thompson, originally drafted 26th overall by the St. Louis Blues, is the primary example. After a slow start to his professional career and a trade to the Buffalo Sabres, Thompson has evolved into a 6-foot-6 offensive powerhouse. His breakout seasons in Buffalo have proven that development isn't always linear, and his rare combination of size and skill would easily land him in the top 10 today.
- Adam Fox: From 66th overall to a top-3 talent.
- Tage Thompson: From a late first-round project to an elite power forward.
- Alex DeBrincat: A second-round find who has become a consistent 30-40 goal scorer.
- Carter Hart: Despite recent headlines, he was the first goaltender taken and showed elite potential early.
Final Verdict on the 2016 Class
Looking back at the 2016 NHL Draft, it is clear that this class has lived up to the hype. While Auston Matthews remains the most talented individual player, the emergence of Matthew Tkachuk, Adam Fox, and Charlie McAvoy has created a "Big Four" that would dominate any era. The 2016 draft didn't just provide stars; it provided the foundational pieces for several current Stanley Cup contenders. Whether you value Matthews' goals or Tkachuk's grit, the 2016 class remains one of the deepest and most impactful in recent memory.
Sources & Original Reporting
