Top 5 NHL Rookie Cards from the 2023 Draft

The world of sports card collecting is constantly evolving, with hockey fans and collectors eagerly seeking out the next big thing. As the 2023 NHL Draft introduced a new wave of talented players into the league, it’s time to explore the top five NHL rookie cards. These are the 2023 hockey cards that every collector should consider adding to their collection. These freshly minted cardboard stars not only represent the promising careers of future hockey legends but equally have the potential to become valuable investments over time.

Leo Carlsson

Of course the second overall pick is going to be on the list. The Anaheim Ducks made a surprising pick by taking Carlsson second overall. He being drafted wasn’t the surprise, Leo is a wholly talented 6-foot-3 190 pound forward with a precise shot. What surprised is the Ducks already have a highly talented locker room filled with young talent in need of development. It seems that the front office believes they need to continue bulking up on offensive talent. That being said, this takes the pressure off Carlsson to join the Ducks right away. Now he can finish his final season in the Swedish Hockey League. Then make his way to Anaheim the following season.

David Reinbacher

The first defenseman off the board, Reinbacher has spent his early career lighting the lamp for EHC Kloten in the Swiss National League. In his final season leading up to the NHL Draft, Reinbacher boasted an average of 18 minutes and 31 seconds of ice time per game. Reinbacher additionally served as alternative captain for Team Austria at the 2023 World Juniors Championship. David also played at the 2023 IIHF World Championships. Reinbacher’s most valuable traits are his maturity for his age and mobility. His ability to transition from zone to zone will make him a valuable addition to the Montreal Canadiens this season.

Adam Fantilli

Drafted third overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets, the former Michigan Wolverine Adam Fantilli is set to generate a direct impact on offense for the struggling Blue Jackets. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing over 200 pounds, he possesses a formidable physical presence on the ice. Fantilli is an offensively gifted player with a dominant shot, excellent puck-handling skills, and the ability to create scoring opportunities. His all-around game, maturity, and potential represent him as a substantial asset to Columbus.

Connor Bedard

Undoubtedly the hottest prospect in all of hockey, Bedard was drafted first overall by the Chicago Blackhawks. Bedard displays exceptional talent, skating ability, and a natural scoring touch. He possesses incredible hockey IQ, vision, and playmaking skills establishing him as a dynamic presence on the ice. Bedard’s skillset and maturity beyond his years have drawn comparisons to elite NHL players. Connor is considered one of the brightest young stars to watch out for in the hockey world.

David Edstrom

With the final pick in the first round, the Vegas Golden Knights selected David Edstrom. He is a left-handed two-way center from the Swedish Hockey League. In most drafts, all anyone ever talks about are the first few picks, but Edstrom is a sleeper. Over the past few seasons, he has carved a reputation for himself as one of the elite players in Sweden’s premier junior league. The defending Stanley Cup Champions will be able to use a big center with a great shot to help make another run next post-season.

As the NHL continues to produce remarkable talent through its annual draft, collecting rookie cards has become a thrilling aspect of being a hockey enthusiast. The top five NHL rookie cards from the 2023 NHL Draft highlighted in this article represent the most brilliant young stars. These young guns are poised to produce a lasting impact on the league. Whether you are a collector or an investor, these cards offer a unique opportunity to possess a piece of hockey history while potentially recognizing investment value appreciate over time. Therefore, seize the moment and add these promising rookies to your collection, as they embark on their journey to becoming the future legends of the game.

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2023 Hockey Card Boxes to Buy

Some of the top 2023 hockey card boxes available include 2022-23 O-Pee-Chee Hockey, 2022-23 UD Series 1 Hockey, 2022-23 UD Series 2 Hockey, and 2022-23 SP Authentic Hockey.

Best Hockey Card Packs to Buy Annually

• Upper Deck SPX Hockey Hobby Box
• O-Pee-Chee Platinum Hockey Box
• Upper Deck Extended Series Hockey Hobby Box

Written by Chris Keeley, Baseball-Trading-Cards.com Freelance Staff Writer