The thing is, it is just really hard to evaluate defensemen at 18 years of age - the learning curve is long and steep, and some guys are going to ascend it and most aren't. The problem is that it is really difficult to assess in advance who will.
The obvious solution is quantity.
I think as a general rule, top picks should focus on forwards, and centres in particular.
After that, I think you should try and acquire as many D prospects as you can in the middle rounds. Draft lots of them and develop them patiently.
The more cracks you take at it, the more likely you are to hit it big.
I love that the Flames have drafted 7 D in the last two years - I hope they keep taking 3 or 4 each draft.
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