2026 NHL Mock Draft 1.0: Scott Wheeler predicts the entire first round
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The mock draft for the 2026 NHL Draft predicts Toronto Maple Leafs selecting LW Gavin McKenna from Penn State as the No. 1 pick, emphasizing his fit alongside Auston Matthews and marketability in Toronto.
- San Jose Sharks are projected to pick RHD Chase Reid from Sault Ste. Marie at No. 2 to address their need for a top-pairing defenseman, while Vancouver Canucks may select center Caleb Malhotra at No. 3 to fill their franchise center role.
- Other notable early picks include Chicago Blackhawks taking LW Ivar Stenberg at No. 4 for a strong winger to complement Connor Bedard, and New York Rangers choosing RHD Keaton Verhoeff at No. 5 to bolster their defense prospects.
- Mid-first round selections highlight teams focusing on positional needs, such as Calgary Flames picking LHD Carson Carels at No. 6, Seattle Kraken selecting RHD Daxon Rudolph at No. 7, and Winnipeg Jets opting for center Tynan Lawrence at No. 8.
- The mock draft outlines strategic fits and potential contingencies for teams, with follow-up mocks planned around the combine and draft week to refine predictions based on evolving scouting information.
