2026 NHL Mock Draft Insights
With June marking the arrival of summer, The Athletic’s Corey Pronman has unveiled his updated mock draft for the 2026 NHL season, detailing predictions for all 32 first-round selections. Among the notable teams, the Montreal Canadiens are projected to choose forward Liam Ruck.
Liam Ruck’s Impressive Season
Ruck, a standout player for the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL, had an impressive season, featuring in 68 games where he scored 45 goals and provided 59 assists, accumulating a total of 104 points. Such statistics underscore his talent and potential impact on the ice.
At 6 feet tall, the winger is noted for his offensive abilities and is viewed as a promising candidate for a top-six forward role within the NHL.
Impact on the Canadiens
Adding Ruck to the Canadiens’ roster could significantly enhance their prospect pool, especially given his knack for scoring. However, his remarkable performance this season raises concerns about his availability by the time Montreal’s turn comes up in the draft.
As teams assess their strategies leading up to the draft day, Ruck’s stock is sure to rise, making it uncertain whether he will still be on the board for the Canadiens when their selection arrives.
With anticipation building, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the draft unfolds.
