10 Best 2012-13 Upper Deck Series 1 Hockey Young Guns Rookie Cards
By Ryan Cracknell
Who will be the breakout Young Guns in 2012-13 Upper Deck Series 1 Hockey? We count down our 10 top picks.
Hockey Rookie Cards
The NHL has very stringent guidelines governing rookie status. This in term makes the identification of hockey rookie cards fairly straight forward. Regardless of where and when the player is drafted, a hockey player is designated a rookie only after they take the ice in their first official NHL game. This strict criteria provides ample opportunity for hockey card manufacturers to spread out the release of rookie cards throughout the entire product release calender..
In recent years the current NHL sports card licensees (Upper Deck and Panini America) have been tagging all players drafted in the NHL Entry Draft as rookie cards in hopes that most of the players, particularly those selected in the first round, will make the team sometime in that calendar year. If a drafted player is designated for assignment elsewhere in the team’s organization, for example to their AHL affiliate, technically that player is not a rookie until he is called up to the NHL roster and plays in a game.
Browse our ever-growing database of hockey rookie cards which features individual NHL player RC checklists, analysis, price comparisons and rookie card image galleries.
10 Best Upper Deck The Cup Rookie Cards
By Ryan Cracknell
One of the most popular modern brands in hockey, we count down the ten best Upper Deck The Cup rookie cards released between 2005-06 and 2010-11.
10 Must-Have Wayne Gretzky Cards
By Lou Ruggiano
Look back on the cardboard career of Wayne Gretzky with our list of cards that capture the essence of The Great One and have left a lasting impact on the hobby.
2013-14 Panini Dominion Hockey Rookie Patch Autograph Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
Here’s all you need to know about the 2013-14 Panini Dominion Hockey Rookie Patch Autographs. Includes image gallery, detailed checklist, redemption info and more.
2014-15 SP Authentic Hockey Future Watch Autographs Gallery, Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
Delve into the 2014-15 SP Authentic Hockey Future Watch Autographs set with a detailed gallery, checklist, card info, redemption details and more.
2014-15 Upper Deck Premier Acetate Autograph Patch Rookie Gallery
By Ryan Cracknell
Taking a page from National Treasures’ swan song, the 2014-15 UD Premier Acetate Autograph Patch Rookie cards are some of the most attractive of the year. Take an in-depth look at the entire collection.
2016-17 Upper Deck Young Guns Checklist and Gallery
By Trey Treutel
Led by Auston Matthews and Patrik Laine, see all the 2016-17 Upper Deck Young Guns in one place! The guide features a full checklist, team info and card gallery for every ’16-17 Young Guns rookie card.
2017-18 Upper Deck Young Guns Guide and Gallery
By Trey Treutel
Get ready for Young Guns fever! Our 2017-18 Upper Deck Young Guns guide highlights all the NHL rookie cards in one place.
2018-19 Upper Deck Young Guns Rookie Checklist and Gallery
By Trey Treutel
Get ready for the new assortment of NHL rookie talent with the 2018-19 Upper Deck Young Guns line! The flagship RC set is always a hobby favorite.
2020-21 Upper Deck Young Guns Gallery, Checklist Breakdown & Hot List
By Trey Treutel
Alexis Lafrenière headlines Series 1 of the 2020-21 Upper Deck Young Guns, Series 2 offers Kirill Kaprizov and Tim Stutzle and Extended Series closes out the full set. Keep track of all the YG rookie cards with a detailed guide.
2021-22 Upper Deck Young Guns Rookie Card Checklist, Gallery & Hot List
By Trey Treutel
Check out the latest batch of NHL rookie cards with the Ultimate 2021-22 Upper Deck Young Guns Guide.
2022-23 Upper Deck Young Guns Rookie Card Checklist, Gallery & Hot List
By Trey Treutel
Our detailed 2022-23 Upper Deck Young Guns checklist guide keeps tabs on the popular NHL rookie card series.
Aaron Ekblad Rookie Cards Checklist and Guide
By The Cardboard Connection
Take an in-depth look at the rookie cards for Aaron Ekblad, the first overall pick in the 2014 NHL draft and the 2014-15 Rookie of the Year.
Alex Galchenyuk Rookie Card Guide and Prospect Card Highlights
By Ryan Cracknell
One of the most promising young players in the NHL, Alex Galchenyuk is a key part of the Montreal Canadiens’ future. Get a detailed look at his rookie cards as well as prospect card highlights.
Alexandre Burrows Hockey Cards: Rookie Cards Checklist and Buying Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
The 2011 Stanley Cup run of the Vancouver Canucks was filled with big plays and emotional moments. In the middle of many of these memories was left winger Alexandre Burrows. Originally un-drafted, he was signed by Vancouver as a free agent after working his way up through the ranks. Burrows has emerged as a clutch […]
All the 2014-15 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns in One Place
By Ryan Cracknell
Check out all the 2014-15 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns with their detailed guide. Includes a full image gallery, checklist, team info and more for Series 1 and 2.
Artemi Panarin Rookie Card Checklist and Gallery – NHL Rookie of the Year
By Trey Treutel
He may not be the biggest name but Artemi Panarin of the Chicago Blackhawks put forth the best overall season among 2015-16 rookies. View all rookie cards for the Bread Man in one place using our detailed guide and checklist.
Auston Matthews Rookie Cards Checklist and Gallery
By Trey Treutel
Auston Matthews is putting together a great start to his NHL career. Enjoy our guide to the best rookie cards for the Toronto Maple Leafs’ star.
Behold! All the 2013-14 Upper Deck The Cup Rookie Auto Patch Cards
By Ryan Cracknell
2013-14 Upper Deck The Cup Hockey has some of the most valuable rookie cards of the year. See all 90 of the Rookie Auto Patch cards and shop for the cards you’re looking for.
Behold! Every 2011-12 Upper Deck Ultimate Collection Hockey Rookie Card
By Ryan Cracknell
We’ve compiled a comprehensive gallery of all the 2011-12 Upper Deck Ultimate Collection Hockey rookie cards complete with images, details and a handy buying guide for those looking for specific cards.
Carey Price Rookie Cards Checklist and Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
Carey Price has proven to be one of hockey’s greatest goalies and he’s done it on the NHL’s most storied franchise. Here’s a detailed look at all of his rookie cards including images, card info and more.
Chris Kreider Rookie Cards Checklist and Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
Following a stellar postseason debut, hopes are high for Chris Kreider. Get a comprehensive look at all Chris Kreider rookie cards, including card details, images and buying guide.
Complete Guide to Tomas Hertl Rookie Cards
By Trey Treutel
Get a detailed look at Tomas Hertl rookie cards with this handy guide. It also includes info on Tomas Hertl pre-rookie cards released in the Czech Republic that were produced before he joined the NHL.
Comprehensive 2011-12 Panini Prime Hockey Prime Rookies Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
With on-card autographs, four jersey swatches and low numbering, 2011-12 Panini Prime Hockey Prime Rookies are likely to be some of the most popular rookie cards of the year. Get a detailed gallery, checklist, redemption info and buying guide.
Corey Perry Rookie Card Checklist
By Brett Lewis
Complete rookie card checklist with pictures for Anaheim Ducks superstar scoring machine Corey Perry. The 25-year old Right Winger currently leads the NHL in goal scoring with a total of 50.
Forever Young! Complete Guide to Upper Deck Young Guns Rookie Cards
By The Cardboard Connection
Upper Deck’s Young Guns set has traveled the long road to hockey card immortality. View all the different designs in our detailed YG gallery.
Full 2019-20 Upper Deck Young Guns Rookie Checklist and Gallery
By Trey Treutel
Collect some of the most popular hockey rookie cards of the year with 2019-20 Upper Deck Young Guns. The storied RC line is headlined by Jack Hughes in Series 1 and Kaapo Kakko in Series 2.
Get These 5 Thomas Vanek Rookie Cards Now!
By Ryan Cracknell
With Thomas Vanek off to a torrid start, we look at his best rookie cards as they’re poised to soar. Includes images, buying guide and more.
Here’s What the 2015-16 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns Look Like
By Ryan Cracknell
The 2015-16 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns design has been revealed. Check it out and find out about some of the rookies you can expect to find.
Jack Eichel Rookie Card Guide and Checklist – Updated
By Trey Treutel
Although his exclusive with Leaf limits his autograph options, Jack Eichel already has several key cards from Leaf and Upper Deck and more on the way. View a detailed look at the rookie cards for the Buffalo Sabres’ young star.
Jaroslav Halak Rookie Card Checklist
By Brett Lewis
In case you missed it, Jaroslav Halak and the #8 seed Montreal Canadiens upset Alexander Ovechkin and his #1 seeded Washington Capitals, in the process becoming the first #8 seed in NHL history to come back and beat a #1 seed after trailing a series 3-1. The reason for this was simple, Goalie Jaroslav Halak held […]
John Tavares Rookie Card Checklist
By Brett Lewis
Checklist, info, and statistical breakdown of every currently available true Tavares RC.
Johnny Gaudreau Rookie Card Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
“Johnny Hockey” is heating up the cool Calgary winters with his stellar play. Take a look at Johnny Gaudreau’s rookie cards and know what’s available.
Nail Yakupov Rookie Card Guide
By Trey Treutel
Ever since the the Edmonton Oilers selected Nail Yakupov first overall in the 2012 NHL Draft, collectors have expected great things from the young Russian player. Get full details for all Nail Yakupov rookie cards with this comprehensive guide.
Return of the Mac! Full Nathan MacKinnon Rookie Card Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
Surging with fans and collectors, Nathan MacKinnon rookie cards are on the move! Take a look at all his rookie cards with our comprehensive gallery and checklist.
Roberto Luongo Rookie Card Checklist
By Brett Lewis
Complete checklist of every Roberto Luongo RC from the 1997-98 hockey card season with bonus pictures for each and ever rookie card! Cardboard Connection, re-connecting sports fans with sports cards.
Rookie Collector’s Guide to 2011-12 SP Authentic Hockey Future Watch Autographs
By Ryan Cracknell
Here’s all you need to know about the 2011-12 SP Authentic Future Watch Autographs. Get details, images, a full checklist and buying guide for all 60 rookie cards.
Ryan Kesler Rookie Card Checklist
By Ryan Cracknell
After knocking off the Chicago Blackhawks, Nashville Predators and San Jose Sharks, the Vancouver Canucks are in the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time since 1994. Ryan Kesler has been the breakout star for the team, notching clutch goals in each of the first three rounds. Selected with the 23rd pick of the 2003 […]
See All 100 of the 2013-14 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns
By Ryan Cracknell
Get a detailed look at the 2013-14 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns checklist including team info, draft status and more. The loaded list includes Nathan MacKinnon, Nail Yakupov, Tomas Hertl and more.
See All the 2013-14 SP Authentic Hockey Future Watch Rookie Autographs
By Ryan Cracknell
Check out the entire set of 2013-14 SP Authentic Future Watch autographs with this handy guide. Includes full image gallery, set info, redemption details, checklist and more.
Steven Stamkos Rookie Card Checklist
By Brett Lewis
Printable Steven Stamkos RC checklist complete with statistical breakdown of total rookies, rookie auto’s, numbered rookies, and more! From The Cup to Ultimate Collection, we cover every true 2008-09 Stamkos Rookie Card in existence.
Tim Thomas Hockey Cards: Rookie Cards Checklist and Buying Guide
By Ryan Cracknell
The road to NHL superstardom didn’t come quickly or easily for goalie Tim Thomas. Drafted by the Nordiques in the 9th round of the 1994 draft, Thomas would spend several years bouncing around leagues in North America and Europe honing his skills. He’d have to wait until the 2002-03 season to make his NHL debut. […]
Top 10 1970s Hockey Rookie Cards
By Ryan Cracknell
Count down the most valuable hockey rookie cards of the 1970s. Players includes Wayne Gretzky, Guy Lafleur and Ken Dryden.
Top 10 Hockey Rookie Cards of the 1980s
By Ryan Cracknell
We count down the 10 best rookie cards from one of hockey’s greatest decades. Which all-time greats make the list? Which ones didn’t make it. Find out here. Includes images, analysis and buying guide.
Top 10 Hockey Rookie Cards of the 2000s
By Kevin Ransom
We count down the best and most important hockey rookie cards released between 2000 and 2009. Players include Sidney Crosby, Alexander Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin.
Top 10 Sidney Crosby Rookie Cards
By Kevin Ransom
A modern legend in the NHL, Sidney Crosby is one of the most popular players on the ice and in the collecting world. With multiple rookie cards to choose from, we count down some of the very best.
Top 10 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns Rookie Cards
By Ryan Cracknell
We count down the 10 most valuable Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns rookie cards. Who tops the list?
Top 2020-21 NHL Rookie Cards Guide and Hockey Rookie Card Hot List
By Trey Treutel
Featuring Alexis Lafreniere and more, track the hottest 2020-21 NHL rookies and rookie cards with a top player guide and real-time hockey rookie card hot list.
Top 2021-22 NHL Rookie Cards Guide and Hockey Rookie Card Hot List
By Trey Treutel
Featuring Cole Caufield, Trevor Zegras and more, track the hottest 2021-22 NHL rookies and rookie cards with a top player guide and real-time hockey rookie card hot list.
Top Alexander Ovechkin Rookie Cards to Collect
By Trey Treutel
Many years into his long career, Alexander Ovechkin is still a scoring machine for the Washington Capitals. Review some of his very best rookie cards available.
Top Alexis Lafrenière Rookie Cards and Prospects
By Trey Treutel
Alexis Lafreniere’s NHL career is underway with the New York Rangers. Check out the best rookie cardboard available for the young superstar.
Top Kirill Kaprizov Rookie Cards to Collect
By Trey Treutel
Kirill Kaprizov is your 2020-21 Calder winner as the NHL’s rookie of the year. Check out the best Kirill Kaprizov rookie cards from his first NHL season.
Ultimate Connor McDavid Rookie Card Checklist Gallery
By Trey Treutel
Connor McDavid is already one of the biggest names in the NHL and the hobby. Check out all the Connor McDavid rookie cards in our detailed guide.
Ultimate Guide to 2011-12 Upper Deck The Cup Auto Rookie Patch Cards
By Ryan Cracknell
Here is everything you need to know about the 2011-12 Upper Deck The Cup Auto Rookie Patch cards. Get a complete checklist, image gallery, team info, redemption list and more.
Ultimate Upper Deck Young Guns Checklist and Team Set Guide
By Trey Treutel
Keep track of all the YG rookies with the complete Upper Deck Young Guns checklist. The guide provides year-by-year designs and full team lists for the iconic NHL rookie card set from 1990-91 to 2022-23.
View ALL the 2015-16 Upper Deck Young Guns in One Place!
By Trey Treutel
Led by Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel, view all the 2015-16 Upper Deck Hockey Young Guns in our detailed guide. Includes a full image gallery, checklist, team info and more for the UD Series 1 and Series 2 Young Guns.
Wayne Gretzky Rookie Cards Checklist and Hockey Memorabilia Guide
By Rob Bertrand
Guide to collecting Wayne Gretzky Hockey cards. Includes a rookie card checklist, card gallery, and more.
