Patrick Kane is the kind of guy who takes pleasure in proving people wrong. A blue-collar kid from a blue-collar city, Kane has long been questioned about his size and commitment to playing defence. He's always answered by working hard and becoming a better hockey player. Even in the days leading up to the NHL entry draft in Columbus, where many feel Kane could be selected first overall, the 18-year-old from Buffalo was still shaking his head at those who doubt him. He was flipping through the Red Line Report during a recent interview at a Toronto hotel and noted the comment where he was called a "one-way player." "It's funny to read this stuff," said Kane, who is still ranked No. 1 by the scouting publication despite concern over his defensive play.

While some pretty fair prospects -- guys such as Patrick Kane and Kyle Turris and James vanRiemsdyk -- will be available in the opening round of the NHL entry draft Friday evening in Columbus, Ohio, there's no one with a pedigree rivaling those of the Penguins' recent first-rounders. And even if there were, it wouldn't matter much to the Penguins because, after selecting first or second in four consecutive drafts, they won't choose until 20th this time.