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NHL teams target centers in second round of draft; Red Wings aim for top talent

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 3:53 PM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

NHL teams target centers in second round of draft; Red Wings aim for top talent

Summary

The NHL draft is approaching, with teams looking to find impactful centers in the second round. The Detroit Red Wings, without a first-round pick, are expected to prioritize center depth, potentially selecting Adam Valentini. Historical successes of second-round centers like Sebastian Aho and Roope Hintz support this strategy. Other teams, including the Boston Bruins and Colorado Avalanche, are also active in trade discussions and potential draft targets.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Market Watch

•Detroit Red Wings lack first-round pick for 2026 NHL draft.
•Possible second-round target includes University of Michigan center Adam Valentini.
•Notable second-round centers include Sebastian Aho and Roope Hintz.
•Boston Bruins seek a right-shot defenseman ahead of the draft.
•Pittsburgh Penguins have identified key trade targets for the offseason.

Latest Updates

3:53 PMYahoo Sports — The Daily: NHL Teams Find Centers in Second Round; Pens Have Trade Targets

What they're saying

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The post The Daily: NHL Teams Find Centers in Second Round; Pens Have Trade Targets appeared first on Detroit Hockey Now. Since the Detroit Red Wings will have no first round pick this year at the NHL draft, Detroit Hockey Now […] The post The Daily: NHL Teams Find Centers in Second Round; Pens Have Trade Targets appeared first on Detroit Hockey Now.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Boston Bruins Colorado Avalanche Detroit Red Wings New York Rangers Philadelphia Flyers NHL Hockey