Taylor Hall joins a mixed bag of former No. 1 picks and MVPs in Boston
The Bruins’ midnight acquisition of Taylor Hall sent Boston hockey fans into a frenzy. Although he’s had a relatively down year with the dreadful Buffalo Sabres, it’s not every day that your team acquires a former No. 1 overall pick or Most Valuable Player, never mind a guy who has done both. Hall was selected first overall in the 2010 NHL Draft by the Edmonton Oilers, and later won the Hart Memorial Trophy in 2018 while playing for the New Jersey Devils.
However, this isn’t the first time a local team has picked up a player with a similar resume in recent history. Cam Newton is the first name that comes to mind, having been both a top pick and MVP, but there’s been a handful of guys across all four teams who have brought those distinctions with them to the region.
Who were the most successful such acquisitions? Who were the biggest busts? Here’s the recent history of No. 1 overall draft picks and MVPs in Boston. Keep in mind this only includes players who were drafted or won MVP for another team, then came to Boston. Players such as Mookie Betts (2018 AL MVP) and Drew Bledsoe (1993 NFL 1st overall pick) attained the honor with a local team, so they don’t fit the description.
No. 1 overall picks
Former MVPs
Both No. 1 pick and MVPs
Where will Hall fit into this picture? The Bruins have arguably had the least success of the four teams in this department, but can the 29-year-old be the one to change that narrative? We should start finding out soon. Speaking with reporters Monday morning, Hall said he is making the drive from Buffalo to Boston, and would like to play in Tuesday’s game against the Sabres. You can catch the call of that game on 98.5 The Sports Hub, with pregame coverage starting at 6:30 p.m..
Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.
