NHL Draft 2026: Rising Prospects
As the NHL scouting period for the forthcoming 2026 draft intensifies, the competition among the elite prospects is becoming increasingly fierce. At the forefront of this promising class are standout players like Gavin McKenna, Ivar Stenberg, and Keaton Verhoeff, while a number of talents including Chase Reid and Caleb Malhotra are gaining momentum as the season progresses. This evolving landscape suggests that the hierarchy of these prospects remains fluid and subject to change.
NHL Standings Update
Meanwhile, in the NHL standings, the Vancouver Canucks continue to occupy the last position, though the St. Louis Blues have recently dropped in the rankings, and the Winnipeg Jets have notably surged upward by three spots within the last two weeks. With the draft order being determined by the standings, sorted by points percentage as of January 29, 2026, let’s explore the predictions for the top 16 picks in this year’s draft set to take place in June.
Top 16 Draft Predictions
- Vancouver Canucks: Ivar Stenberg, Left Wing, Frolunda (Sweden)
With an impressive tally of 28 points in 29 games, Stenberg is showcasing scoring prowess that rivals that of seasoned players, aiming to break Daniel Sedin’s record for the most points by a Swedish player in their draft year. His capability to generate offense, combined with sharp vision and two-way skills, makes him a nightmare for opponents on both sides of the rink. - St. Louis Blues: Gavin McKenna, Left Wing, Penn State (NCAA)
Since returning from the World Junior Championship, McKenna has reignited his scoring touch, netting 11 points in just five games, including a hat trick against Wisconsin. His offensive domination and ability to contribute defensively position him as a frontrunner to reclaim the top spot among this year’s prospects. - Calgary Flames: Tynan Lawrence, Center, Boston University (NCAA)
Lawrence’s exceptional speed and puck-handling skills have distinguished him among his peers. Despite some adjustment challenges at the NCAA level, his high-caliber toolkit and quick thinking make him a valuable asset, justifying his choice within this draft echelon. - New York Rangers: Keaton Verhoeff, Defenseman, North Dakota (NCAA)
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 208 pounds, Verhoeff embodies the ideal physical traits sought after by NHL teams. His reliability as a defender, coupled with an evolving offensive game, showcases his potential as a top-tier choice in this draft class. - Winnipeg Jets: Chase Reid, Defenseman, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Reid’s remarkable combination of size, agility, and hockey acumen renders him a challenging opponent for attackers. Known for his ability to facilitate transition plays, he is vying closely with Verhoeff for top-ranking in the defensive category. - Chicago Blackhawks: Alberts Smits, Defenseman, Jukurit (Finland)
Smits stands out for his unmatched determination and competitive spirit. His experience in Finland against seasoned professionals is set to bolster his skill set as he prepares for international competition at the Winter Olympics. - Nashville Predators: Ryan Lin, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL)
Although his stature raises questions, Lin’s tenacity and technical prowess are undeniable. His meticulous defensive play assures his spot as a reliable defenseman with a solid foundation for growth in the NHL. - Washington Capitals: Viggo Bjorck, Center, Djurgarden (Sweden)
Bjorck’s relentless play style compensates for any limitations in size and skating ability. His proactive approach in pressing opponents leads to scoring opportunities, positioning him as a potential top-six player in the future. - New Jersey Devils: Ethan Belchetz, Left Wing, Windsor (OHL)
Recent performances indicate a slight decline for Belchetz, who is still recognized for his exceptional playmaking skills. To retain his top-10 prospect status, he must reinforce his assertiveness on the ice.
