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
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.
- •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.
- 4:43 PMYahoo Sports — Is The NHL Heading Into The Golden Age Of Defensemen?
"Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, Rasmus Dahlin, Zach Werenski, Matthew Schaefer, and soon, Landon DuPont have the NHL heading into a golden age of defensemen.
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