Page "Atlanta Thrashers" Paragraph 8

Atlanta had the second overall pick in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft ; this draft brought better results, as the player chosen with that pick, Dany Heatley, went on to become one of the team's best players.

The team also had a fine choice in the 2001 Draft, with first overall pick Ilya Kovalchuk.

Both Heatley and Kovalchuk played their first season in the NHL in 2001 – 02 ; both players were named to the NHL All-Rookie Team and Heatley was awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's Rookie of the Year.