Biggest Steals From the 2010 NHL Draft – The Hockey Writers – NHL Entry Draft

With the 2010 Draft 15 years behind us, it is time to look at the biggest steals from that draft. I will go through each round, excluding the first round, and will talk about where every steal is currently at in their career.

Second Round: Justin Faulk, Tyler Toffoli, Jason Zucker

In a surprisingly stacked second round compared to most drafts, the 2010 NHL Draft produced several hidden gems—three of whom have emerged as some of the most underrated players in the league today.

Justin Faulk, selected 37th overall by the Carolina Hurricanes out of the U.S. National Team Development Program (USNTDP), has quietly built a remarkable NHL career. One of the league’s most underappreciated defensemen, Faulk hit a career-high 50 points in the 2022–23 season. Having played 980 games split between the Hurricanes and St. Louis Blues, Faulk’s steady presence on the blue line and offensive contributions often go unnoticed on the national stage, but his value is undeniable.

Tyler Toffoli, originally drafted by the Los Angeles Kings, has become a model of consistency after several team changes. Now with the San Jose Sharks, he is coming off a career-best 73-point season and is practically a lock for 20-plus goals and 40–55 points each year. With a long-term deal in place, Toffoli now serves not just as a scoring threat but also as a mentor and leader for a young Sharks roster in the middle of a rebuild.

Jason Zucker, another product of the USNTDP, was taken in the second round and developed further at the University of Denver. Though his peak of 33 goals and 64 points may not be repeated, he remains a reliable veteran presence. Now with the Buffalo Sabres, he’s carved out a meaningful role and looks to close out his career on a high note, contributing both on and off the ice.

Honorable Mentions: Calle Jarnkrok, Jon Merrill

Third Round: Radko Gudas, Bryan Rust

Not everyone is a fan of Radko Gudas’ rugged, physical style of play—but there’s no denying its effectiveness. He has carved out a long-lasting role in the NHL, appearing in 829 games and counting. Now with the Anaheim Ducks, he brings veteran toughness and stability to a young, rebuilding roster. While his impact may not always show up on the scoresheet, Gudas plays a crucial role in mentoring the Ducks’ developing blueliners and setting a physical tone on the back end.

Bryan Rust, a…