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Winners and losers from 2026 NHL Draft first round: Sharks bolster impressive young core
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- The San Jose Sharks are the biggest winners of the 2026 NHL Draft first round, selecting top prospects like Ivar Stenberg (No. 2) and Keaton Verhoeff (No. 9), strengthening both their forward and defensive prospects significantly.
- The Seattle Kraken's pick of Chase Reid at No. 7 addresses a key organizational need, adding a highly ranked offensive defenseman expected to be a future top-pairing player.
- Toronto Maple Leafs secured the most talented player in the draft, Gavin McKenna (No. 1), expected to make an immediate impact in their top six and power-play unit.
- Several teams, including Calgary Flames, Vancouver Canucks, Anaheim Ducks, and New York Rangers, are considered "overtime winners," making solid selections that align well with their draft positions and organizational needs.
- The Philadelphia Flyers, Ottawa Senators, and Vegas Golden Knights are viewed as "losers" in the first round due to risky or less impactful picks relative to their draft positions, with concerns about development and upside.
