We won't know who had the best 2004 draft for another four to five years. And judging by the derth of talent in 2004, having the top draft isn't going to be as important as 2003, 1998 or 1995.
Anyways, I know I'm a little late, but some quick thoughts on this list:
*Washington and Pittsburgh definitely have the best prospects. However, word of caution to Caps fans: you were consistently in the top 3 of the THN rankings for much of the 1990s, and look what it got you. A sweep in the 1998 Cup finals. Not much to crow about. Love Pittsburgh's talent, but with the exception of Malkin, there isn't a bona-fide future No. 1 forward or defenceman in the system. Lots of good, future top-four d-men and second and third line forwards, but Malkin's the only one who screams first liner.
*Chicago is too high. I love the future top three defencemen with Barker, Seabrook and Babchuk, but they lack that future elite forward. They belong in the top 10, but I can name several teams that I like more.
*I don't know if Edmonton or the Rangers deserve their lofty rankings. Borderline top 10, but I like Buffalo and LA more.
*Anaheim, Columbus, Minnesota and Atlanta are right about where they belong.
*Teams I would have had higher: Nashville, LA, Buffalo, Florida and Philly.
*Is there a bigger drop-off in talent than Atlanta? Lehtonen and Coburn to Vlabik. Yikes.
*I don't think the Habs are too high. I think they're deserving of top 5 consideration. Kostitsyn is a future star. Chipchura's solid. Perezhogin is highly skilled.