2026 NHL Draft: Top 13 Prospects to Watch

Here is a preliminary look at the 2026 NHL Draft class. These are 13 standout players based on early viewings at international events. The players listed may change by June 2026.

1. Gavin McKenna, LW, Medicine Hat (WHL)

McKenna is the top contender for the No. 1 pick. He is an elite offensive player with exceptional puck skills and hockey sense. He consistently makes creative plays and skates well. However, his off-puck play and compete level can vary.

2. Ethan Belchetz, LW, Windsor (OHL)

Belchetz is a physical player who stands about 6-foot-4 and weighs 220 pounds at 16 years old. He skates well for his size and shows impressive skill. His physical development may give him an edge in the short term.

3. Ryan Roobroeck, C, Niagara (OHL)

Roobroeck has been a long-time prospect with speed and size. He has significant offensive talent and is a key player for Niagara. He could challenge McKenna as the draft approaches.

4. Keaton Verhoeff, RHD, Victoria (WHL)

Verhoeff transitioned from a goaltender to a defenseman. He is 6-4, athletic, and shows promise as a top defenseman in his class. His decision-making with the puck is still developing.

5. Ivar Stenberg, LW, Frölunda (Sweden Jr.)

Stenberg is a smaller winger with dynamic offensive abilities. He excels at junior levels in Sweden, demonstrating strong puck skills and the ability to score from distance.

6. Adam Novotný, LW, Mountfield (Czechia)

Novotný has 1.5 seasons of pro experience in Czechia. He is a well-rounded forward with good skating and skill. Questions remain about the impact of his puck play.

7. Ilya Morozov, LW, Tri-City (USHL)

Morozov is a 6-3 winger who has made an impact in the USHL. His size and ability to create offensive plays stand out.

8. Simon Katolický, LW, Tappara (Finland Jr.)

Katolický impressed at the U17s with his size and skating ability. He has strong playmaking skills and can drive toward the net effectively.

9. Viggo Björck, C, Djurgårdens (Sweden Jr.)

Björck shows great puck control despite being undersized. His skill and vision allow him to make plays and impact games positively.

10. Tynan Lawrence, C, Muskegon (USHL)

Lawrence is intelligent on both ends of the ice. He is a creative playmaker who competes well defensively. His height might limit him at 5-11.

11. Luke Schairer, RHD, U.S. NTDP (USHL)

Schairer is a tall, mobile defenseman with two-way potential. He has the ability to move the puck effectively and contributes offensively.

12. Mathis Preston, RW, Spokane (WHL)

Preston is a natural scorer. He skates well, possesses good puck skills, and can finish plays effectively.

13. Nikita Ovcharov, LW, CSKA (Russia Jr.)

Ovcharov showed promise before an injury. He has speed and skill, combined with a solid frame, making him a player to watch.