Detroit Red Wings draft J.P. Hurlbert at 2026 NHL Draft

The Detroit Red Wings selected J.P. Hurlbert with the 23rd overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft held at KeyBank Center in Buffalo on June 26. Hurlbert, an 18-year-old forward, impressed scouts with a strong offensive record, scoring 97 points including 42 goals for Kamloops in the WHL last season. He is set to further develop at the University of Michigan this fall. The Wings view him as a potential key addition to their prospect pool, with assistant general manager Kris Draper praising his scoring instincts and size. Hurlbert expressed joy at being drafted by a team his family has ties to, including a grandfather who watched the Wings in their earlier glory days.

• 9:07 AMYahoo Sports — Detroit Red Wings may fast-track J.P. Hurlbert. Here's why