verb (used with object), assimilated, assimilating. 1. to take in and incorporate as one's own; absorb: He assimilated many new experiences on his European trip. 2. to bring into conformity with the customs, attitudes, etc., of a group, nation, or the like; adapt or adjust: to assimilate the new immigrants.
25 years ago Mats Sundin was taken first overall at the NHL draft - and it changed the game forever. News. 25 years ago Mats Sundin was taken first overall at the NHL draft - and it changed the game forever. Mats Sundin broke a barrier to become the first European drafted No. 1 overall. The game changed forever that day. By Uffe Bodin. The year 1989 was one of great historical significance.
Of the 30 NHL teams, only nine of them have starting goaltenders who were drafted in the first round, and five of those players were drafted by the club they are currently playing for. Christian Petersen/Getty Images. Jonathan Quick (left) and Henrik Lundqvist are the NHL's top two goalies.