It’s been quite some time since the debate over the first overall pick in an NHL Draft has been so intense, but the 2026 class finally presents a true multi-contender scenario. Gavin McKenna was an early favorite, having dazzled in the Western Hockey League (WHL) last season. However, following the 2026 World Juniors, Swedish sensation Ivar Stenberg emerged to challenge McKenna’s supremacy. Since then, Keaton Verhoeff and Chase Reid have also garnered significant attention as potential candidates for the top spot. McKenna has solidified his position in recent months, yet the race remains wide open as we approach the final stretch before the 2026 NHL Draft.
Defensemen have truly asserted their dominance at the top of this draft class. Half of my top 10 prospects are blueliners, with three of them ranking within the top five. This phenomenon recalls the 2021 Draft, where Owen Power went first to the Buffalo Sabres, though his top selection was not a foregone conclusion. That class also featured other highly-touted future stars like Matty Beniers, Kent Johnson, Luke Hughes, Brandt Clarke, and Simon Edvinsson. Parallels can also be drawn to the 2008 Draft, which saw Steven Stamkos picked first, followed by a strong contingent of defensemen: Drew Doughty, Zach Bogosian, Alex Pietrangelo, and Luke Schenn.
Much has been discussed regarding the depth of the 2026 Draft class. While it may not boast the same level of elite, high-end talent as some previous years, it offers a broad spectrum of dependable middle-of-the-lineup options, particularly after the initial 10 selections. The distinction between my 64th and 32nd ranked prospects was negligible, largely boiling down to personal preference. I anticipate this will significantly influence how NHL teams approach this draft. There isn’t a clear ‘best player available,’ but rather players that individual teams favor based on their specific biases or roster needs.
Consider Maddox Dagenais as an example. Some rankings place him within the top 25, whereas I have him at 51st. The primary reason for this divergence appears to be differing scouting priorities. If a scout values a player with a powerful shot, strong offensive instincts, and an NHL-ready physique, Dagenais would likely rank much higher. However, I prioritize prospects with exceptional skating and work ethic, areas where I felt he significantly lagged. This dynamic sets the 2026 Draft up to be much more unpredictable, which always adds an exciting element.
Finally, the 2026 Draft has one conspicuous weakness: goaltenders. I chose not to include any netminders in my top 64, not due to a lack of promising talent. Tobias Trejbal, Parker Snell, Michal Orsulak, and Brady Knowling are all solid prospects with the potential to develop into strong NHL goalies. However, the skater pool felt so tightly grouped that I opted to focus exclusively on them. I wouldn’t be surprised if it takes until the third round before a goalie is called to the stage.
With that context, let’s delve into my top 64 prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft.
First Round
1. Ivar Stenberg, LW, Frölunda (SHL)
I became a significant admirer of Stenberg during the 2026 World Junior Championship. He consistently made an impact whenever he was on the ice, concluding the tournament as his team’s leading scorer with 10 points. He already exhibits a professional playing style, confidently attacking the ice and positioning himself perfectly to generate offense. What elevates him to my top-ranked prospect is his exceptional two-way game. His strong work ethic frequently contributed to defense and aggressive backchecking, helping Sweden concede the fewest goals at the World Juniors. He represents the closest approximation to the next Macklin Celebrini in this 2026 Draft Class.
2. Gavin McKenna, LW, Penn State U. (NCAA)
Despite ranking Stenberg first, I believe McKenna possesses the highest ceiling in this draft class. His puck-handling abilities are extraordinary; whether he’s stickhandling through heavy traffic to create space or identifying seemingly non-existent passing lanes to deliver perfect passes to teammates, he effortlessly sets up and completes plays. While I do have reservations about his defensive game and overall effort, he has shown continuous improvement at Penn State and is firmly on track to become a perennial NHL All-Star capable of accumulating significant points.
3. Chase Reid, RD, Soo Greyhounds (OHL)
A highly mobile offensive defenseman capable of playing extensive minutes, Reid has been one of the standout blueliners in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) this season. With the puck on his stick, he can dictate the pace, creating time and space to pinpoint the ideal passing lane or patiently await a scoring opportunity. He excels at stickhandling and skating, and despite a slight lack of physicality, his highly intelligent and aware game makes him incredibly valuable to any team.
4. Keaton Verhoeff, RD, U. North Dakota (NCAA)
Verhoeff may have started his hockey journey as a goaltender, but he is now recognized as one of the premier defensemen in the 2026 Draft class. Similar to Reid, he is a highly mobile defenseman, utilizing his long reach and agility to position himself effectively against opponents. He is constantly in motion, adjusting and shifting to maintain optimal defensive positioning. His powerful shot from the blueline is a threat to any goalie, and he also moves the puck exceptionally well for a 6-foot-4 player. Concerns about his offensive translation to the NCAA have been largely allayed, with 20 points in 33 games, demonstrating his comfort with the University of North Dakota. Had it not been for Reid’s phenomenal season, Verhoeff would likely be considered the top defenseman.
5. Carson Carels, LD, Prince George Cougars (WHL)
No player made a greater impression at the WHL Top Prospects Game in February than Carson Carels. He was omnipresent on the ice, displaying a top-tier work ethic, excellent skating mechanics, and superb offensive instincts, contributing to all four of his team’s goals in various ways. With the Prince George Cougars, he exerts a similar influence, orchestrating play from the blue line like a general, and consistently knowing when to join the rush to press the attack. His combination of skill and intelligence positions him for a lengthy and successful career, regardless of the role he undertakes.
6. Caleb Malhotra, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
Centers will be highly coveted at the 2026 NHL Draft, and Caleb Malhotra is poised to be the first off the board. The 6-foot-2 center for the Brantford Bulldogs has torn through the OHL this season, amassing 29 goals and 84 points in 67 games. He skates with exceptional speed, effortlessly maneuvering past defenders, and possesses a fluid stride that maintains his momentum through directional changes.
With the puck, however, he demonstrates an uncanny ability to slow the game down, drawing in defenders and precisely positioning them to create high-danger scoring chances for his teammates. He is a tactical mastermind when initiating plays, and this level of intelligence and vision will make him a formidable opponent at any level.
7. Daxon Rudolph, RD, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)
I may rate Daxon Rudolph higher than many, but I see a similar skill set to Carels. He is a reliable defenseman capable of handling significant ice time and commanding his team from the blue line. At the WHL Top Prospects Game, he was just as prominent as his Western counterpart, justifiably earning both his Team East captaincy and Player of the Game honors. What I’ve particularly admired about Rudolph’s game is his unwavering composure under pressure; the more intense the situation, the calmer he appears. Equipped with a very high hockey IQ, good size, and smooth skating, he is expected to be another highly sought-after defenseman this year.
8. Tynan Lawrence, C, Boston University (NCAA)
Like McKenna, Tynan Lawrence has faced a somewhat challenging transition to college hockey after departing the United States Hockey League’s (USHL) Muskegon Lumberjacks. In his initial 15 games with Boston University, he recorded just one goal and four points, falling short of early projections. Nevertheless, he continues to exhibit skills that point to a top draft pick. He fearlessly engages larger opponents in the corners and behind the net, possesses excellent straight-line speed, and displays an offensive presence akin to Malhotra, employing a combination of high work ethic and creativity to generate plays. He simply needs to build more confidence and strength to reach his full potential.
9. Viggo Björck, C/W, Djurgårdens IF (SHL)
There is little that Viggo Björck cannot accomplish on the ice. At the World Juniors, he showcased his outstanding shot and refined playmaking abilities, finishing third in points for Team Sweden, trailing only Stenberg and team captain Jack Berglund. He is also arguably one of the fastest players eligible for the 2026 Draft, capable of maintaining puck control at top speed. While some might point to his 5-foot-10 frame as a potential weakness, he still delivers impactful hits and has played almost the entire 2025-26 season in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), where his 15 points rank among the top 10 U20 players in the league. Without a doubt, he is one of the elite talents available in the 2026 Draft and warrants a top-10 selection.
10. Alberts Šmits, LD, EHC München (DEL)
I have closely observed Carter Yakemchuk over the past couple of seasons. In his draft year, he struck me as a highly skilled defenseman who required considerable refinement to become a dependable presence on an NHL blueline. He took significant risks, driving the offense when his teammates wouldn’t, and while this sometimes created spectacular opportunities, it also occasionally placed him in vulnerable positions.
I see many similarities in Alberts Smits: his eagerness to shoulder his team’s offensive burden and aggressively carry the puck, his physicality, and his penchant for high-risk/high-reward plays. Šmits will also demand patience, but with a more developed defensive game, he possesses intriguing upside, reminiscent of the Ottawa Senators’ top prospect.
11. Ryan Lin, RD, Vancouver Giants
We’ve witnessed this narrative before: a smaller defenseman with immense talent gets overlooked due to size, only to defy expectations upon reaching the NHL. This year, that defenseman is Ryan Lin, a highly skilled two-way player who might slide in the draft because he stands at 5-foot-11. He demonstrates incredible intelligence in his positioning and the pressure he applies to opponents, effectively forcing them to the perimeter and blocking shooting lanes. He combines lethal speed and vision to orchestrate perfect plays. Furthermore, he possesses a powerful shot and can deliver crushing hits despite his smaller stature. Underestimate him at your own peril.
12. Adam Novotny, LW, Peterborough Petes (OHL)
I have a particular fondness for exceptional skaters and relentless workers. When I first watched Braeden Cootes play, I was struck by his tireless effort on every single shift, and his ability to inject life into his team even when they seemed outmatched. This year, Adam Novotny embodies that description perfectly. A fierce competitor and a fantastic skater, he has been an integral part of the Peterborough Petes, even as a rookie. He can weave through traffic without losing the puck, boasts excellent stickwork both with and without possession, and plays a solid defensive game. He truly offers the complete package.
13. Ethan Belchetz, LW, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
The NHL is a league of imitation; if one team discovers a successful formula, others will attempt to replicate it. Recently, teams have been searching for the next Tage Thompson: a large, highly skilled player who skates well and can score 40 goals. This year, Ethan Belchetz, a 6-foot-5, 227-pound winger for the Windsor Spitfires, might fit that mold. His preferred area of play is directly in front of the net, where he uses his imposing frame to obstruct the goalie’s view, then swiftly uses his stick to capitalize on rebounds or tip in shots. Surprisingly, he isn’t the most physical player, but he relishes delivering bone-jarring hits when the timing is right. He is built for the intensity of playoff hockey, though his season was unfortunately cut short due to an indefinite absence caused by a broken clavicle.
14. Marcus Nordmark, RW, Djugårdens IF U20 (Nationell)
Marcus Nordmark burst onto the 2026 Draft radar with a phenomenal showing at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he led the tournament with seven goals and 12 points in just five games. His brilliance with the puck was most striking; he can manipulate the puck as if it were tethered to his stick. Coupled with exceptional vision, he can pinpoint seemingly impossible passing lanes and minuscule shooting angles. He will need to refine his defensive presence and backchecking, but his unparalleled ability to control the puck’s movement is undeniable.
15. Xavier Villeneuve, LD, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)
There are many parallels between Lin and Xavier Villeneuve. Both are highly skilled, undersized defensemen who can dictate play with their vision, speed, and offensive acumen. Villeneuve distinguishes himself with his creative puck movement. He loves to initiate the rush and pinch in for scoring opportunities, but he also possesses the speed and awareness to quickly return to his defensive assignment and prevent odd-man rushes. He can also move with incredible quickness while carrying the puck, executing tight turns to create space or deking around opposing defenders to get closer to the net. His playing style carries a bit more risk as competition becomes faster and stronger, but currently, his ceiling is exceptionally high.
16. Oscar Hemming, F, Boston College (NCAA)
Oscar Hemming demonstrated strong performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, but a subsequent contract dispute kept him off the ice for 134 days before he joined Boston College in December. The NCAA presents a different challenge compared to U20 hockey, yet Hemming has adapted reasonably well, tallying a goal and eight points in 19 games. He cycles the zone effectively and intuitively knows where to position himself to generate scoring chances. He also utilizes his large 6-foot-4 frame effectively, punishing opponents who venture into the corners, engage him along the boards, or simply obstruct his path. Had he not missed such a significant portion of the season, he might have been ranked higher.
17. Mathis Preston, RW, Vancouver Giants (WHL)
When I first observed Mathis Preston, I saw echoes of Berkly Catton: swift, inventive, and incredibly difficult to contain. However, over the course of the season, Preston’s performance has leveled off, but that doesn’t diminish his appeal as an intriguing prospect with considerable skill. He is a speedy forward with an exceptionally active stick, which he uses to disrupt plays and force turnovers. He boasts abundant creativity and hustles diligently on the backcheck. While he occasionally overcomplicates his process, it’s evident that he is a very intelligent player with immense potential. Hopefully, next season, he can remain healthy and fully showcase his capabilities.
18. Gleb Pugachyov, RW, Chaika Nizhny Novgorod (MHL)
Gleb Pugachyov stands out as one of the most compelling prospects for the 2026 Draft. My initial observation was his relentless work ethic, making him instantly noticeable on every shift. In one instance, I witnessed him initiating a play and then finishing it himself when his teammate missed the shot. He is also fiercely competitive and aggressive on the puck, a trait that reminds me of Igor Chernyshov, whom I ranked 16th overall in 2024 (though he ultimately went 33rd to the San Jose Sharks). Pugachyov’s KHL numbers are even more impressive than those of the Sharks’ rookie. While not the most offensively gifted, his speed and work ethic consistently deliver results. It’s no surprise that scouts reportedly hold him in high regard.
19. JP Hurlbert, LW, Kamloops Blazers (WHL)
I initially placed JP Hurlbert 9th among my top-10 draft-eligible WHL prospects, but I would now argue he’s on the cusp of lottery consideration. A blistering start propelled him into first-round status, and a very strong performance at the WHL Top Prospects Game solidified it. He was dynamic across the ice, outmaneuvering opponents one-on-one and driving intensely. His infectious work ethic around the puck generated several prime scoring chances. He is quick, creative, and aggressive on the forecheck, qualities that launched him to the top of the WHL scoring race earlier this season. If he can refine his play away from the puck, he has a bright future ahead.
20. Juho Piiparainen, RD, Tappara (Liiga)
Although his scoring numbers were modest at the 2026 World Juniors, Juho Piiparainen undeniably established himself as one of the premier shutdown defenders in the 2026 Draft class. He is an exceptionally responsible defenseman who employs an enviable blend of strength, positioning, awareness, and intelligence to thwart breakouts, create turnovers, and protect his goaltender. He uses his 6-foot-3 frame intelligently and, while not hesitant to deliver a solid hit, he avoids recklessness. Add in a smooth skating stride and the fact that he was nearly a point-per-game player in the U20 SM-sarja, and you have the makings of a potential top-four NHL defenseman.
21. Oliver Suvanto, C, Tappara (Liiga)
Oliver Suvanto is a large, two-way center who has consistently impressed this season with his competitiveness and overall presence. He leverages his 6-foot-3 frame to break up plays and dislodge opponents from the puck, as well as to set up scoring chances and provide screens in front of the net. He was recognized as one of Finland’s Top Three Players at the 2026 World Juniors, despite being the youngest on the team, showcasing how his professional playing style makes him effective in any role. His skating requires substantial improvement, but if he can develop in that area, he could potentially emulate his idol, Aleksander Barkov.
22. Elton Hermansson, RW, MoDo (Allsvenskan)
Elton Hermansson’s offensive talent is undeniable. He possesses a powerful shot and employs considerable creativity in puck movement, contributing to his 11 points at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and 11 goals with MoDo, the highest total for any U18 player in the Allsvenskan. He isn’t the most physical player, but he isn’t afraid to utilize his 6-foot-1 frame to pin an opponent against the boards. While I have concerns about his occasional lack of intensity, if placed in the right system, he could develop into an incredibly dangerous NHL player.
23. Alexander Command, C, Örebro HK U20 (Nationell)
Similar to Suvanto, Alexander Command has excelled this season by playing a physical, two-way game primarily in Sweden’s U20 Nationell league. He is adept at winning puck battles and distributing the puck to his teammates, employing his strength and vision to drive to the interior, pushing past opponents to create space and scoring opportunities. In 30 games, he has recorded 44 points and 61 penalty minutes (PIM), making him the sole U20 player this season to reach both the 40-point and 60-PIM milestones. This rare combination of attributes, especially for such a young player—he turns 18 just 10 days before the draft—will make him a highly coveted asset on draft day.
24. Adam Goljer, RD, HK Dukla Trencin (Slovakia)
Adding to a strong defensive class is Adam Goljer, who has largely been overlooked this season but has displayed skills remarkably similar to the Raiders’ star, Daxon Rudolph. He exhibits great composure when defending and remains unfazed by pressure, which has allowed him to ascend to the top pairing on his team in the Slovak top division. This is coupled with his ability to move smoothly through the neutral zone and quarterback a power play. With robust skating mechanics, a well-honed offensive sense, and strong defensive tendencies, he could develop into a future top-four two-way defenseman.
25. Malte Gustafsson, LD, HV71 (SHL)
In 27 games with HV71, Malte Gustafsson has registered only three assists and zero goals, which hardly screams first-round pick. However, he continues to earn increased ice time thanks to his well-rounded approach. He isn’t primarily a rush defender who carries the puck into the offensive zone, but he moves effectively across the ice and positions himself strategically to prevent breakouts, using his large frame and long reach to halt opponents in their tracks. While he could incorporate a bit more physicality, there are few discernible weaknesses in his current game, which is a promising indicator.
26. Niklas Aaram-Olsen, LW, Örebro HK U20 (Nationell)
Another diligent, two-way forward, Niklas Aaram-Olsen glides effortlessly across the ice. He is an excellent skater and navigates the offensive zone skillfully, constantly seeking scoring opportunities or passing lanes. He contributes actively to both the forecheck and backcheck, utilizing his speed and agility to rapidly close gaps. While some concerns about his consistency have been raised, he continues to receive opportunities in Sweden’s top league and has played more SHL games than Command, though he is still awaiting his first professional point in 16 appearances. He is definitely a player worth taking a calculated risk on.
27. Nikita Klepov, LW, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Indeed, Nikita Klepov’s game has its imperfections, notably his defensive engagement and intensity from shift to shift. But when he is ‘on,’ the OHL’s leading scorer is incredibly captivating to watch. He possesses a great shot with a quick release, and he employs numerous deceptive movements and subtle shifts to throw goalies off balance. He is also a creative puck-mover, capable of slipping the puck through multiple defenders to an open teammate. His vision for the game is incredible, and I considered placing him significantly higher based purely on his offensive capabilities. I just wish he were more consistently engaged on the backcheck.
28. Liam Ruck, RW, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
Despite the departure of McKenna, the Medicine Hat Tigers remained a dominant force in the WHL, largely due to Liam Ruck and his twin brother, Marcus. The two are closely matched in skill, but Liam is likely to be chosen first owing to his superior finishing ability. He is a diligent two-way player who displays high awareness, excellent puck skills, and abundant creativity when close to the net. Only Cameron Schmidt outscored Liam’s 45 goals this season, and his 104 points placed him second in the league scoring race, behind Marcus’s 108 points. My only reservation is how he will perform without his brother on his line, as the pair have developed an almost telepathic connection on the ice. If we’re fortunate, however, we might never have to find out.
29. Tomas Chrenko, C, HK Nitra (Slovakia)
Tomas Chrenko boasts one of the better shots in his draft class. He can unleash it from anywhere, and his pinpoint accuracy ensures it typically finds its target. At the 2026 World Juniors, his five goals tied for second in tournament scoring and significantly led the Slovaks—the next highest goal scorer only managed two throughout the tournament. Back home, he has been the standout teenager in the Slovak professional league, doubling the points of the next highest scorer. He is something of a power-play specialist, so if he can enhance his effectiveness at five-on-five, he will be a fantastic middle-six scorer.
30. Wyatt Cullen, LW, USA U18 (NTDP)
While the US National Development Team (USNDP) may not be as formidable this season as in previous years, Wyatt Cullen is arguably its top player right now and deserves first-round consideration. He operates at a point-per-game pace on the roster, combining a strong work ethic with speed and excellent awareness at both ends of the ice. He battles fiercely for the puck, contributes defensively, delivers hits, and possesses a potent shot. Many of the USNDP’s highlights involve him in some capacity, underscoring his significant impact on the ice. All the fundamental elements are present for him to become an effective NHL player in the future.
31. Ilia Morozov, C, Miami University (Ohio) (NCAA)
Few can rival Ilia Morozov’s work ethic. His game isn’t flawless, but his eagerness to seize every opportunity has helped him evolve into a more well-rounded player this season. He now consistently makes a positive impact every time he steps onto the ice and reliably demonstrates strong problem-solving skills. Given his age, no one anticipated him joining the NCAA this season, but he has appeared perfectly at home with Miami University (Ohio), recording 20 points in 36 games as the youngest player in college hockey.
32. Simas Ignatavicius, RW, Geneve (NL)
A smart, two-way player, Simas Ignatavicius consistently finds himself in the right place at the right time. He is acutely aware of the play unfolding around him, positioning himself to support it while also anticipating its next trajectory. His ability to accurately predict on-ice developments, combined with his versatile skill set, has established him as one of the best young talents in Switzerland’s National League (NL). His game exhibits few weaknesses, reminiscent of Nate Danielson, who was selected much higher than expected in the 2023 NHL Draft due to his high hockey intelligence. While a top-10 selection is improbable, Ignatavicius will be a name to watch in the latter half of the first round.
Second Round
33. Yegor Shilov, C, Victoriaville Tigres (QMJHL)
34. Jack Hextall, C, Youngstown Phantoms (USHL)
35. Victor Plante, LW, USA U18 (NTDP)
36. Casper Juustovaara Karlsson, C/LW, Luleå HF (SHL)
37. Adam Valentini, F, U. Michigan (NCAA)
38. Tomas Galvas, LD, Bílí Tygři Liberec (Czech)
39. Tommy Bleyl, RD, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
40. Vertti Svensk, LD, SaiPa (Liiga)
41. Beckham Edwards, C, Sarnia Sting (OHL)
42. Pierce Mbuyi, LW, Owen Sound Attack (OHL)
43. Nikita Shcherbakov, LD, Tolpar Ufa (MHL)
44. Markus Ruck, F, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
45. Adam Nemec, LW, Sudbury Wolves (OHL)
46. Casey Mutryn, F, USA U18 (NTDP)
47. Zach Olsen, RW, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)
48. Ben MacBeath, LD, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
49. Ryan Roobroeck, C, Niagara IceDogs (OHL)
50. Mikey Berchild, LW, USA U18 (NTDP)
51. Maddox Dagenais, C, Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)
52. Thomas Vandenberg, C, Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
53. Jaxon Cover, LW, London Knights (OHL)
54. Alex Elofsson, RD, Örebro HK U20 (Nationell)
55. Lavr Gashilov, C, Avto Yekaterinburg (MHL)
56. Brooks Rogowski, C, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
57. Cooper Williams, C, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)
58. Sami Alalauri, RD, Pelicans U20 (SM-sarja)
59. Vilho Vanhatalo, RW/LW, Tappara (Liiga)
60. William Håkansson, LD, Luleå HF U20 (Nationell)
61. Oscar Holmertz, C, Linköping HC U20 (Nationell)
62. Alessandro Di Iorio, C, Sarnia Sting (OHL)
63. Giogos Pantelas, RD, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
64. Chase Harrington, LW, Spokane Chiefs (WHL)