Colorado Avalanche History: Top 5 Draft Picks

2. Gabriel Landeskog, #2 in 2011

Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog has turned into the type of power forward coach Roy wants to see. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

As the Colorado Avalanche continued to struggle, they earned the second-overall selection in 2011, and they used it to pick Gabriel Landeskog. The young left wing made the team his first year and, just like MacKinnon, won the Calder Trophy.

Prior to the 2012-13 season, the Avalanche named Landeskog captain of the team — he holds the record as the youngest player to ever be named an NHL captain. Since then, he has strongly grown into his captain’s role. As a power forward, he is a role model on the ice. Landeskog is also beloved by fans and media alike. For his leadership alone he earns the second position on this list.

The last two season Landeskog has finished second on the team for scoring. In the 2013-14 season Landeskog recorded 26 goals and 39 assists for 65 points in the regular season and three goals and an assist in the playoffs. This season he earned 23 goals and 36 assists for 59 points, finishing only behind Jarome Iginla.

Landeskog saw some adversity this season with scoring. However, he showed up every shift regardless, and labeled opponents with a well-timed hit or even participated in captain fights to keep his team motivated.