Hoffman didn't become an NHL regular overnight, though.
It took five more years before he was a mainstay in the nation's capital beginning in 2014-15.
"There was still a lot of work ahead of me, a lot of hard work and determination and wanting to be an NHL player behind it all, but obviously being a fifth-round pick, you're not given everything, so you've got to work for everything that's gone your way and take advantage of every opportunity," stressed Hoffman. "Things change quickly and there's new players drafted every year, so it was really about taking no time off. You've got to have the right mindset and keep working hard if you want to be successful. That was my motivation."
It's no surprise that the veteran's message for the incoming Draft class is along the same lines.
Success at the next level isn't always a given.
"The Draft is a tremendous experience, something you'll remember for the rest of your life, but it's only the beginning. You never want to take anything for granted. It's a great accomplishment, but there's a long road ahead of you," insisted Hoffman. "You've got that extra bit of confidence now, and hopefully that can lead to you evolving your game, evolving as a person off the ice, and learning how to become a pro."