Future Watch: Jonathan Drouin Hockey Rookie Cards, Tampa Bay Lightning – Sometimes expectations can weigh down a young hockey player and that can affect their performance early in their careers. Jonathan Drouin could fall into that category. Drafted 3rd overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2013 NHL Draft he had the spotlight firmly on him from that point on and to date he’s played 70 regular season NHL games and six in the playoffs, with meager results considering the hype that surrounded him.

After he was sent back to Syracuse in the AHL last season some thought that he would be dealt over the summer. He wasn’t a big part of the Lightning’s Stanley Cup run that was cut short by the Chicago Blackhawks. At the age of 20, some were having doubts about the Quebec native.

Last season in the NHL he did get 32 points and he can build on that for sure. So far this preseason he’s looked great and already has had a two-goal game. With what can only be termed as blazing speed at times he’s capable of splitting defenders and scoring highlight reel goals. His general manager, the legendary Steve Yzerman never gave up on him.

If the Tampa Bay Lightning are going to make another run at the Stanley Cup you can bet that Drouin will have to be a big part of that. At just 5′-11″ and now 185lbs he has had to get stronger over the past few seasons since he was drafted to be able to handle the rigors of a grueling 82-game season. He’s done that and so far he’s getting results.

As a former 3rd overall NHL Draft pick, Jonathan Drouin is a key part of the checklist of numerous 2014-15 Upper Deck Hockey products. Obviously, his Young Guns rookie card is very popular as is his SP Authentic Future Watch rookie auto.

Here’s a highlight video of the young star:

Check out his speed here:

Drouin was a teammate of Nathan Mackinnon with the Halifax Mooseheads. Mackinnon was the first overall pick in 2013 and he won the Calder. Many have waited for Drouin to have his moment. This could be his year.

Future Watch: Jonathan Drouin Hockey Rookie Cards, Tampa Bay Lightning – Image Gallery

Russ Cohen

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