A Review of the Carolina Hurricanes First Round Draft Picks Part I: 1997-2007

2002:  Cam Ward (G) 25th Overall 334W 27SO

Finally, success!  After a string of first round busts, the ‘Canes were able to find their goalie of the future at the end of the first round in 2002 in Conn Smythe winner Cam Ward.  Arguably the best goalie in franchise history, he rose out of relative obscurity to guide the Hurricanes to the Stanley Cup Championship in 2006.  He was the primary backstop for the next 12 seasons and retired as the franchise leader in wins and shutouts.  On top of the 2006 Stanley Cup title, he also led the Hurricanes to the Eastern Conference finals in 2009. Overall a great pick for the franchise and no players chosen after Ward in the first round made an impact in the NHL.  

Note: Future late round Hurricanes pick Martin Vagner was drafted one pick later