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Carson Carels prepares for NHL Draft after strong WHL season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 12:32 AM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Hockey

Summary

Carson Carels, an incoming freshman defenseman at the University of North Dakota (UND), is projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Known for his physical style of play, Carels recorded 20 goals and 73 points in 58 games for the Prince George Cougars last season. UND's associate head coach Matt Smaby highlighted Carels' unique skill set, noting his aggressive playstyle, which is increasingly rare. While other draft prospects are attending the event in Buffalo, New York, Carels plans to watch the draft with his family from his farm in Manitoba. The first round occurs at 6 p.m. Friday.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Carels tallied 20 goals and 73 points last season in the WHL.
•He was named Most Valuable Player at the WHL Prospects Game.
•Top draft picks expected to include forwards Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg.
•Carels' strong two-way game has garnered significant attention from scouts.

Latest Updates

12:32 AMYahoo Sports — UND incoming freshman Carson Carels is 'not afraid to take your head off'

What they're saying

"
Jun. 24—GRAND FORKS — Carson Carels is a little different than others who are projected to go high in the 2026 NHL Draft. The UND incoming freshman defenseman is not just about points and offense. "He's got some throwback in him, which I really appreciate," UND associate head coach Matt Smaby said. "His skating is good. His puck skills are good. But he's also not afraid to take your head off. ...
— Yahoo Sports

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