2026 NHL Draft concludes, sparks debate on all-time player rankings
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 4:15 PM
Last updated Jun 28, 2026
The 2026 NHL Draft wrapped up on June 27, adding 224 players to the league. Standouts like Gavin McKenna and Tyler Deakos were selected as teams sought prominent talents. As the debate over the best NHL players continues, Wayne Gretzky tops a list of all-time greats alongside Mario Lemieux and Bobby Orr. Active players, including Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, are seen as potential future legends complementing the historical ranks.
- •NHL Draft added 224 new players on June 27.
- •Gavin McKenna was the first overall pick by the Maple Leafs.
- •Wayne Gretzky is ranked first among all-time NHL players.
- •Debates continue over the best NHL players, including active contenders.
- •The draft could produce future legends in the sport.
- 4:15 PMYahoo Sports — 25 best NHL players of all time
"The 2026 NHL Draft wrapped up Saturday, June 27, with 224 players joining the world’s premier hockey league. From the Toronto Maple Leafs’ top pick, left wing Gavin McKenna, to the Montreal Canadiens’ final selection, right wing Tyler Deakos, dreams…
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