Lighthouse Hockey, a New York Islanders community

[Duchene and Tavares agent Pat] Brisson said he usually knows by now, adding that Garth Snow's cone of silence act is something he's never experienced in 20 years at the draft.

Frankly, as it became apparent the Islanders had a strong shot at the No. 1 pick this season, my feeling was that they needed Tavares more than they needed anything else. But lately, I'm not so sure. Comparing notes with NHL players, broadcasters and personnel experts I know, it's much closer to an even split on the Tavares vs. Hedman question. I haven't yet got a sense of where people stand on Duchene by comparison.

"Matt Duchene is a very good player who has progressed a lot. His all-around game is very strong, and he continues to get better. Let's not forget John Tavares has been coming through for years ... Remember that Mike Bossy was not a great defensive player when he was drafted, but he sure helped his franchise."