NHL, NBA drafts

As we move into the off-season for both the NBA and NHL we begin to see more of the future of professional sports. The NBA draft, which is usually a major snooze, carries at least one potential star this year. Is it Kyrie Irving or Derrick Williams. Many NBA pundits believe that not Irving or Williams, but Jimmer Fredette is the most polished to play in the NBA. The question is whether or not Fredette can create his own shots, defend and simply compete against the NBA. Fredette has already proven he can play on a big stage, and his early workouts have shown that he is a freak in the gym. Fredette will be drafted early because his athleticism cannot be denied and he will also sell plenty of jerseys.

The NHL draft is another story. The NHL always has a much deeper, longer and more franchise changing aspect. The bad clubs in the NHL can change their fortunes long term with solid selections and this year is no exception. A talent laden first round with future household names like Sean Couturier, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Gabriel Landeskog and Jonathan Huberdeau. The great thing about the NHL draft is that these kids are literally kids. Many of which aren't old enough to legally drive a car in the United States, without a licensed passenger. That's young folks.

The great thing about these drafts is that it always gives the fan something to look forward too, and no one will  know who these players are until the team puts them in a position to contribute. It's a fun thing to speculate on, and slot these players in your mind's eye lineup. Will Kyrie Irving bring the Cavs some respect...can he direct the offense and create plays? Can Derrick Williams change the Timberwolves, with the help of recent import Ricky Rubio? The Jazz and Fredette...a match made in Utah heaven?

We all speculate about our sports teams. It's what we do, and it's why we care. It's all about that next season and the new faces that can change our passion for the better.