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2026 NHL Draft projections anticipate key picks from top teams

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 10:00 AM

Last updated Jun 26, 2026

2026 NHL Draft projections anticipate key picks from top teams

Summary

As the 2026 NHL Draft unfolds in Buffalo, New York, anticipation surrounds the first round selections. The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to take Gavin McKenna, a standout left winger from Penn State. Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks have options for both player defenseman Ivar Stenberg and Daxon Rudolph. St. Louis Blues possess multiple picks, including a high selection due to trades that have characterized this year’s draft. With ten teams missing first-round selections, traders may aim for unexpected moves during the event. Draft dynamics could shift as teams adjust their strategies based on the immediate needs and player availability.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Draft held in Buffalo, New York on June 26, 2026
•Toronto expected to select Gavin McKenna at No. 1
•San Jose may draft Ivar Stenberg and Daxon Rudolph
•St. Louis enters with four picks after trades
•Ten teams lack a first-round pick altogether

Latest Updates

10:00 AMYahoo Sports — 2026 NHL Mock Draft

What they're saying

"
Ahead of tonight’s NHL draft, let’s take a stab at how the first round could play out tonight. First, a moment of silence for our near miss last year – when we tried to predict that Kyle Dubas would go ‘off the board’ with a high pick on a WHL center that no one saw […]
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Buffalo Sabres Calgary Flames New York Rangers San Jose Sharks Toronto Maple Leafs Vancouver Canucks NHL Hockey