Collector's Corner # 23: Collecting The NHL Draft

As the NHL Draft approaches, I wanted to feature one collectors passion for Draft Day.

As the 2023 NHL Draft quickly approaches, I felt it was a good time to revive the 'Collector's Corner' segments on my blog. 

For those who haven't seen them yet, I created this subset on my blog to turn it back over to you, the collector, to showcase your collection in all its glory. From team collectors to player collectors and everything in between, I wanted to share the enjoyment that each and every collector shares for their own personal collection, and share some sweet cards along the way.

This edition of Collector's Corner will feature Larry's collection of the NHL Draft. I hope you enjoy!

If you or someone you know wants to be featured on my blog, please contact me and let me know. 

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Introduction

I started collecting in 1992 once the influx of Russian players started into the NHL.  Alex Kovalev, Alexi Yashin and Sergei Fedorov were the first players that I collected then I started collecting OPC RC's of the 80's.   

Collecting has always been a way for me to connect to the history of the game no matter what era of the game while also looking forward to young players making their NHL debut.

What or Who Do You Collect?

I collect a Upper Deck Young Guns, SP Authentic Future Watch Auto, or an O-Pee-Chee Rookie Card along with a certified auto of every NHL first-round draft pick from 1963 to current.

Why Did You Start To Collect Rookie Cards from The NHL Draft?

Once I started collecting 1980's OPC RC's I noticed (on the back of their cards) how many of the most collected players were drafted in the first round of the NHL entry draft. 

​At that point  (1993) I figured I would start collecting the draft and work backwards to 1990 then add to the collection after each draft.   Then in 1995 when the first BAP (Be A Player) Autograph set came out I started collecting certified autographs of drafted players as well.  I loved seeing the Rookie Card and Certified auto next to each other.

What Is Your Favourite Card or Item ?

While I love my Crosby, McDavid and Ovechkin Upper Deck Young Guns cards, my Evgeny Malkin SP Authentic Future Watch Auto is probably my favorite as I got it in one of 2 packs that were left in a box at my local card show. 

In addition, my Mario Lemieux O-Pee-Chee is probably my favorite RC (Rookie Card), as he is my favorite player of all-time. 

What's On Your Wantlist? Any 'White Whales' You'd Like To Add One Day?

Unfortunately, I wasn't quick enough to pick up an Future Watch Auto of Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid or Auston Matthews and fear that their prices may make it impossible for me to ever be able to acquire one. So I consider them to be my white whales.  

How Can Other Collectors Contact You?

I spend most of my time discussing collecting on Twitter @paigesfall 

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