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Top prospects and trade predictions for the 2026 NHL Draft

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 2:31 PM

Last updated Jun 24, 2026

Top prospects and trade predictions for the 2026 NHL Draft

Summary

The 2026 NHL Draft is set to begin on Thursday. Gavin McKenna, Ivar Stenberg, and Caleb Malhotra are the top-ranked offensive prospects. Toronto is expected to draft McKenna first overall, but recent trades indicate a high level of uncertainty. The Buffalo Sabres may trade their fourth overall pick to acquire goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from Winnipeg, while the Jets plan to select defenseman Carson Carels with that same fourth pick and left winger Wyatt Cullen at eighth overall. These moves reflect strategic shifts as teams prepare for the upcoming season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•2026 NHL Draft begins on Thursday.
•Toronto likely to select Gavin McKenna first overall.
•Buffalo Sabres may trade fourth pick for Connor Hellebuyck.
•Winnipeg Jets plan to draft Carson Carels and Wyatt Cullen.
•Draft decisions could influence playoff strategies for 2026-2027.

Latest Updates

2:31 PMYahoo Sports — 3 Bold predictions for the 2026 NHL Draft

What they're saying

"
The 2026 NHL Draft begins on Thursday. Gavin McKenna, Ivar Stenberg, and Caleb Malhotra are the top-ranked offensive prospects heading into Thursday evening’s draft. There has been constant debate on which player Toronto will draft first overall, but there is…
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Winnipeg Jets IIHF Hockey