RealGM Hockey: Shift Change - Be The GM: Steven Stamkos Vs. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins

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Be The GM: Steven Stamkos Vs. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins

Authored by Nick Obergan - 20th January, 2012 - 10:15 am

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The final matchup before the Final Four features a pair of former first overall selections.

Why Steven Stamkos Is a Franchise Player

The first overall pick in 2008 was unfairly panned by the media after scoring "only" 23 goals as an 18-year-old rookie. So I guess that would make his sophomore season as a 19-year-old pretty good? He shared the Rocket Richard Trophy that year by scoring 51 goals and led the league with 24 power play scores. In 2010-11, he scored 45 times even though he slumped badly after the All-Star break.

He is developing into a leader, being named an assistant captain this year, and is once again among the league leaders in goals and points. At 21-years-old, there are likely many more Rocket Richard Trophies in his future and perhaps an Art Ross or three as well.

Stamkos defeated Dustin Byfuglien in the first round and Drew Doughty in the second round.

Why Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Is a Franchise Player

The top pick of the 2011 draft by the Edmonton Oilers, RNH has exceeded early expectations. Despite numerous worries about his slight build (6-foot-0, 170 pounds soaking wet), the 18-year-old has made a seamless transition from the CHL to the NHL, averaging more than a point-per-game through the first 30 games. His only negative stat so far is his face-off percentage, but that will improve over time through strength and repetition.

In his two previous seasons playing (WHL), The Nuge has totaled 55-116-171 in 136 games, proving to be one of the premier passers of the last decade. If you are looking for a good comparable hockey player: perhaps a slicker version of Brad Richards, or less physically-imposing Joe Thornton.

Nugent-Hopkins defeated Jeff Skinner in the first round and Matt Duchene in the second round.

-- Nick is an NHL Feature Writer for RealGM. You can reach him by email nick.obergan@realgm.com or on twitter @NickObergan.

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