New York Islanders Best Late Draft Picks in Franchise History

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Mar 5, 2017; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee (27) and Calgary Flames defenseman Deryk Engelland (29) fight for position in front of Calgary Flames goalie Brian Elliott (1) during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports /

Anders Lee (2009) – 6th Round, 152 Overall

Scouts had no idea if Anders Lee would ever turn pro. He had the chance to play football, and scouts figured he’d stick with that rather than turning to hockey.

So in the sixth round of the 2009 draft, where they also took John Tavares first overall, the New YorIslanderssr selected Anders Lee with the 152nd pick.

Lee would play three years with the Universty of Notre Dame of the NCAA before making his debut in the NHL. In 125 games with the University of Notre Dame Lee scored 116 points.

His NHL career would be just as fruitful, but it wouldn’t be until his fourth full year in the pros that he would show glimpses of what he could achieve.

In 180 games before the 2016-17 season, Lee had scored 50 goals and 93 points. Already he was on pace to be a gem in the draft. And then in 2016-17, he put up a 34 goal effort. A true feat, not only because he’d only scored a single goal by November 22nd or 18 games into the season.

Next: Predicting Adam Pelech's Extension

Isles current prospect Devon Toews is on pace to become the newest addition to this list. After playing for three seasons with Quinnipiac University Toews played his first season in the AHL and put up 46 points in 75 games. Keep an eye out for him.