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NHL sees rise of elite defensemen with emerging young talent

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 4:43 PM

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

NHL sees rise of elite defensemen with emerging young talent

Summary

The NHL is experiencing a significant increase in the prominence of elite defensemen, led by players such as Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes. As current stars excel, a new wave of talent, including Rasmus Dahlin and Landon DuPont, is emerging. DuPont's recent performance in the Memorial Cup has highlighted his exceptional potential, positioning him as a standout in upcoming drafts. The league's focus on versatile and impactful defensemen suggests a promising era for the sport's backlines. The 2026 and 2027 drafts are expected to bolster this trend with high-potential defenders.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes among elite current defenders.
•Landon DuPont excels, advancing his team in the Memorial Cup.
•Upcoming drafts feature several highly-rated defensemen.
•Moritz Seider and Miro Heiskanen continue to develop as top players.
•Potential for multiple future Hall of Famers among current and upcoming talents.

Latest Updates

4:43 PMYahoo Sports — Is The NHL Heading Into The Golden Age Of Defensemen?

What they're saying

"
Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, Rasmus Dahlin, Zach Werenski, Matthew Schaefer, and soon, Landon DuPont have the NHL heading into a golden age of defensemen.
— Yahoo Sports

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