{"id":1594,"date":"2026-06-26T17:23:23","date_gmt":"2026-06-26T23:23:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/?p=1594"},"modified":"2026-06-27T07:38:23","modified_gmt":"2026-06-27T13:38:23","slug":"2026-nhl-draft-leafs-pick-gavin-mckenna-no-1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/sports-betting-and-news\/2026-nhl-draft-leafs-pick-gavin-mckenna-no-1\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 NHL Draft: Analysis on every Rd. 1 pick"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After all the hype, all prospect reports, all the mock drafts and all the trades, the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo arrived Friday night. Leafs super fan <strong>Justin Bieber<\/strong> kicked things off with commissioner Gary Bettman to introduce Penn State winger <strong>Gavin McKenna<\/strong> as the No. 1-overall pick by the <strong>Toronto Maple Leafs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite McKenna being the presumed top pick for years heading into the season, no true consensus emerged. The left winger moved to the NCAA this season tafter dominating the WHL for two years. But his perceived defensive liabilities and lack of physical play, coupled with a slow start in college had the doubters doubting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Things changed after averaging two points per game at the World Junior Championship and having a huge second half at Penn State, McKenna solidified himself as the top pick. His skill and offensive hockey sense were just too hard to ignore; he&#8217;s the only prospect NHL scouts said could score 100 points, some even compare his game Nikita Kucherov&#8217;s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">THIS IS AS GOOD AS IT GETS!!! \ud83e\udd29 <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/hashtag\/NHLDraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLDraft<\/a><br><br>\u201cYukon\u201d singer <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/justinbieber?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@justinbieber<\/a> announces the Yukon\u2019s very own Gavin McKenna as the first overall pick for the <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/MapleLeafs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@MapleLeafs<\/a>! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/2ZklggLfXS\">pic.twitter.com\/2ZklggLfXS<\/a><\/p>&mdash; NHL (@NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/NHL\/status\/2070649991689896161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 26, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Swedish winger <strong>Ivar Stenberg<\/strong> proved himself against men in Sweden, looked great at the World Junior Championship and impressed at the men&#8217;s World Championship. He&#8217;s considered the most NHL-ready player in the draft and will step right into a top-six role for San Jose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Defenceman <strong>Chase Reid<\/strong> of the OHL&#8217;s Soo Greyhounds moved into the top spot on some scouting reports during the season. His explosive skating, ability to break down the opposition with a single outlet pass, walk the line and run a power play were too much to ignore. He led (I thought) a strong cadre of D-men expected to dominate the Top 10.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among centres, Brantford&#8217;s <strong>Caleb Malhotra<\/strong> shot up boards as well. He&#8217;s a 200-foot player who can score and defend. He and Sweden&#8217;s skilled energy bunny <strong>Viggo Bj\u00f6rck<\/strong> were the consensus top players at the most important position outside the blue ice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How it all was going to play out after the first two picks was a mystery. (Hint: It didn&#8217;t go as planned, including nine trades!) Here&#8217;s every pick of the 2026 NHL Draft&#8217;s first round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Toronto Maple Leafs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gavin McKenna<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Penn State (NCAA) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;5&#8217;11&#8221; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;170 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">McKenna is a transcendent offensive talent whose spatial awareness, elite hockey sense and sublime passing make him a lethal playmaker. He projects as a franchise-altering, top-line winger capable of driving an NHL offence and consistently competing for scoring titles.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Penn State<\/td><td>35<\/td><td>15-36-51<\/td><td>36<\/td><td>-7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Canada U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>7<\/td><td>4-10-14<\/td><td>14<\/td><td>+7<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Gavin McKenna | NHL Draft Highlights\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/vJOZTiM8ELI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. San Jose Sharks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ivar Stenberg<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Fr\u00f6lunda (SHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;5\u201911&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;183 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Played against men all season showing a near-flawless, highly intelligent two-way game paired with top playmaking and hockey sense. With a remarkably high floor, he projects as a reliable, foundational top-six winger who can drive possession and contribute in all situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM&nbsp;<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Fr\u00f6lunda&nbsp;<\/td><td>43<\/td><td>11-22-33<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>+10<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sweden U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>7<\/td><td>4-6-10<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>+5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sweden WC<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>4-4-8<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"IVAR STENBERG HIGHLIGHTS\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UEouu7zDd40?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Vancouver Canucks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Caleb Malhotra<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;C |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Brantford (OHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;1.75&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;182 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A complete, 200-foot centre who makes smart decisions with the puck and has significant power-forward potential. He projects as a top-six NHL pivot who can anchor a penalty-killing unit, dominate faceoffs and drive 5v5 scoring. He also just happens to be the coach&#8217;s son.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Brantford&nbsp;<\/td><td>67<\/td><td>29-55-84<\/td><td>51<\/td><td>+33<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Caleb Malhotra prepares for life in the NHL | Welcome to the NHL\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/mXzprtkr-Eg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Buffalo Sabres<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Daxon Rudolph<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Prince Albert (WHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;2.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;206 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Owns a highly projectable frame combined with a natural offensive flair and poise on the blue line. He projects as a versatile top-four NHL defender with the tools to be a power-play contributor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Prince Albert&nbsp;<\/td><td>68<\/td><td>28-50-78<\/td><td>75<\/td><td>+32<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. New York Rangers <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Alberts Smits<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;EHC M\u00fcnchen (DEL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;3&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;205 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Smits is a mobile, towering blueliner who played well against men all season. He projects as a top-four defenceman with offensive upside who can excel in all situations and anchor a D-corps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Jukurit&nbsp;<\/td><td>38<\/td><td>6-7-13<\/td><td>20<\/td><td>-3<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>EHC M\u00fcnchen&nbsp;<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>0-1-1<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Latvia U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>1-4-5<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>-6<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Latvia OG<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>0-2-2<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>-2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Latvia WC<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>0-4-4<\/td><td>0<\/td><td>+1<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The proceedings were interrupted by the Commish to announce two trades.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">To NYR:<br>Dorofeyev<br><br>To LV:<br>2026 1st (Originally Dallas) <br>2026 3rd (92) <br>2028 Top-10 protected first<\/p>&mdash; Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/FriedgeHNIC\/status\/2070653019809620350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 26, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Trade details:<br><br>To <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/hashtag\/NHLBruins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLBruins<\/a>:<br>JJ Peterka<br><br>To <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/hashtag\/TusksUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#TusksUp<\/a>:<br>2026 BOS 1st Round Pick (No. 23 overall)<br>Cond. 2028 FLA 1st Round Pick*<br>(Lottery protected)<br><br>Marco Sturm \ud83c\udde9\ud83c\uddea \ud83e\udd1d JJ Peterka \ud83c\udde9\ud83c\uddea\ud83e\udd1d Matt McIlvane<\/p>&mdash; Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/frank_seravalli\/status\/2070649533009166383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 26, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Calgary Flames <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Carson Carels<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Prince George (WHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;1.75&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;198 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Blends a rugged, heavy-lifting defensive mentality with impressive offensive upside. He projects as a rock-solid, minute-munching top-four defender who excels at suppressing scoring chances while playing a physically demanding style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Prince George&nbsp;<\/td><td>58<\/td><td>20-53-73<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>+23<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Canada U20<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>0-1-1<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>+3<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Seattle Kraken<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Chase Reid<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Sault Ste. Marie (OHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;2.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;196 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reid&#8217;s an elite puck-moving defenceman who plays with confidence, dynamic transitional speed and strong offensive instincts. He projects as a top-pairing NHLer capable of quarterbacking a power play while taking on heavy two-way minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>TEAM&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GP<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Soo Greyhounds&nbsp;<\/td><td>45<\/td><td>18-30-48<\/td><td>30<\/td><td>+27<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>USA U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>2-2-4<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Chase Reid Highlights | Seattle Kraken Draft Pick | 2026 NHL Draft Prospect\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/4SvXG1KxsO8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Winnipeg Jets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Viggo Bj\u00f6rck<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;C |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Djurg\u00e5rdens (SHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;5&#8217;9&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;177 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite lacking traditional size, Bj\u00f6rck is a fearless competitor with a relentless motor and a deceptive shot. He projects as a tenacious, middle-six offensive catalyst with second-line upside who will consistently outwork larger opponents to generate scoring chances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Djurg\u00e5rdens&nbsp;<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>6-9-15<\/td><td>12<\/td><td>+5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sweden U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>7<\/td><td>3-6-9<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>+5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sweden (WC)<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>1-5-6<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>+2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Viggo Bj\u00f6rck Highlights | Winnipeg Jets Draft Pick  | 2026 NHL Draft Prospect\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ZoYATCAKTgc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. San Jose Sharks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Keaton Verhoeff<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;North Dakota (NCAA) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;3.75&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;212 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A towering physical presence, Verhoeff uses his frame to dominate opponents while flashing surprisingly refined passing ability in the offensive zone. He projects as a punishing, shutdown guy who will make life miserable for opposing forwards and can start a breakout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">North Dakota&nbsp;<\/td><td>36<\/td><td>6-14-20<\/td><td>29<\/td><td>+7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Canada U18<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>0-4-4<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>+7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Canada U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>0-4-4<\/td><td>0<\/td><td>+4<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Nashville Predators<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Wyatt Cullen<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;U.S. NTDP |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;1&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;180 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cullen has grown eight inches and put on 60 pounds in two years, shooting up the draft rankings. The son of Stanley Cup champ Matt Cullen, he\u00a0has explosive skating and puck-handling skills. He projects as a top-six scoring winger if he refines his defensive consistency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>U.S. NTDP<\/td><td>40<\/td><td>16-29-45<\/td><td>43<\/td><td>+7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>USA U18<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>3-6-9<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>+3<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. St. Louis Blues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tynan Lawrence<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;C |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Boston Univ. (NCAA) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;0.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;185 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lawrence is an exceptionally smart, high-motor centre who reads open ice well and plays a highly reliable two-way game. He projects as a high-end third-line pivot or complementary top-six forward who thrives in transition and heavy-traffic areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Muskegon<\/td><td>13<\/td><td>10-7-17<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>+5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Boston Univ.<\/td><td>18<\/td><td>2-5-7<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>-1<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. New Jersey Devils<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Alexander Command<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;C |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;\u00d6rebro HK (SHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;0.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;186 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A competitive, high-motor two-way centre who consistently wins puck battles and is relentless on the forecheck. He projects as a fundamentally sound, versatile middle-six NHL pivot who can comfortably anchor a checking line and provide valuable secondary scoring. Great interview at the NHL Combine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u00d6rebro U20<\/td><td>30<\/td><td>17-27-44<\/td><td>61<\/td><td>+10<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u00d6rebro HK&nbsp;<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>0-0-0<\/td><td>0<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sweden U18&nbsp;<\/td><td>7<\/td><td>3-4-7<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>+4<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. New York Islanders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Malte Gustafsson<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;HV71 (SHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;4.25&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;205 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A&nbsp;towering, mobile two-way defenceman who excels at suffocating opposing rushes and dominating physical battles in the defensive zone. He projects as a reliable, minute-munching top-four NHL defender who can seamlessly transition the puck and insulate his teammates with high-end defensive awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GP<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>HV71<\/td><td>27<\/td><td>0-3-3<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>-8<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sweden U18&nbsp;<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>1-4-5<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>+7<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Columbus Blue Jackets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Oscar Hemming<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Boston College (NCAA) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;3.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;193 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hemming combines a pro-ready frame with a heavy, highly accurate shot that makes him a constant scoring threat off the rush. He projects as a goal-scoring, top-six power forward tailored for the modern NHL game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM&nbsp;<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Boston College<\/td><td>19<\/td><td>1-7-8<\/td><td>18<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trade No. 3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Mason McTavish is being traded to STL<br><br>for 15 &amp; 29, I believe<\/p>&mdash; Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/FriedgeHNIC\/status\/2070671030054506985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 27, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Anaheim Ducks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Nikita Klepov<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Saginaw (OHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;0&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;187 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He\u2019s a crafty offensive winger with excellent hands in tight spaces and high-level playmaking vision. The first rookie to lead the OHL in scoring since Patrick Kane. He projects as a point-producing middle-six forward who can provide a major spark on the man advantage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Saginaw&nbsp;<\/td><td>67<\/td><td>37-60-97<\/td><td>43<\/td><td>+9<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. St. Louis Blues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Maddox Dagenais<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;C |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Quebec (QMJHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;3.75&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;196 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first QMJHL player selected, Dagenais brings physicality and a long reach to the centre position, thriving in net-front battles and corner puck retrievals. He projects as a prototypical bottom-six power forward who\u2019s difficult to play against.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Quebec&nbsp;<\/td><td>60<\/td><td>30-32-62<\/td><td>31<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Canada U18&nbsp;<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>1-1-2<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>+5<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trade No. 4<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">\ud83d\udea8 Trade<br><br>To <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/hashtag\/TusksUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#TusksUp<\/a><br>&#39;26 1st (#17)<br><br>To <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/hashtag\/GoKingsGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#GoKingsGo<\/a><br>&#39;26 1st (#19)<br>&#39;26 3rd (#83)<a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/A7R3lX63Yk\">https:\/\/t.co\/A7R3lX63Yk<\/a><\/p>&mdash; PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/PuckPedia\/status\/2070677425923522971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 27, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">17. Utah Mammoth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ethan Belchetz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Windsor (OHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;5.25&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;228 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A broken collarbone in early March may have cost Belchetz draft spots. But he&#8217;s a massive power forward who uses his size to dominate the cycle and crash the crease with ferocity. He projects as a unique, physical top-nine winger who can create space for highly skilled linemates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Windsor&nbsp;<\/td><td>57<\/td><td>34-25-59<\/td><td>45<\/td><td>+19<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">18. Washington Capitals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Oliver Suvanto<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;C |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Tappara (Liiga) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;2.75&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;207 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A towering, highly mature two-way centre who excels at puck protection, heavy cycle play and suffocating defensive zone coverage. He projects as a fundamentally reliable, middle-six NHL pivot whose exceptional hockey IQ and physical maturity provide a remarkably safe floor for a competitive team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GP<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tappara&nbsp;<\/td><td>48<\/td><td>2-9-11<\/td><td>16<\/td><td>+3<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Finland U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>7<\/td><td>2-0-2<\/td><td>0<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Finland U18&nbsp;<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>1-2-3<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>-2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">19. Los Angeles Kings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Elton Hermansson<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;MoDo (HockeyAllsvenskan) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;1&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;181 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A skilled, dual-threat winger whose exceptional stickhandling, vision, and deceptive release make him dangerous. His two-way consistency is still a work in progress and his playmaking and offensive IQ project him as a middle-six NHL forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">20. Buffalo Sabres<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ilia Morozov<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong> C | <strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong> Miami Univ. (Ohio) (NCAA) | <strong>Height:<\/strong> 6&#8217;3&#8243; | <strong>Weight:<\/strong> 201 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Morozov is a structurally sound, two-way centre with excellent positional awareness and a heavy physical presence along the boards. He projects as a trusted, defensive-minded third-line pivot who can eat tough defensive zone starts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Miami&nbsp;<\/td><td>36<\/td><td>8-12-20<\/td><td>27<\/td><td>+2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trade No. 5<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">San Jose Sharks acquire 21st overall from Philadelphia in exchange for a 2026 first-round (27th overall), second round (62nd overall) and fourth round selection (120th)<\/p>&mdash; San Jose Sharks PR (@SanJoseSharksPR) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/SanJoseSharksPR\/status\/2070686229755252792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 27, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">21. San Jose Sharks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ryan Lin<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Vancouver (WHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;5&#8217;11.25&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;178 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lin compensates for his average size with phenomenal edge work, lateral mobility and quick, decisive puck movement out of his own zone. He projects as an agile, transition-focused defenceman with upside as a secondary power-play quarterback.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Vancouver&nbsp;<\/td><td>53<\/td><td>14-43-57<\/td><td>35<\/td><td>-19<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Canada U18&nbsp;<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>1-5-6<\/td><td>0<\/td><td>7<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">22. Pittsburgh Penguins<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Liam Ruck<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Medicine Hat (WHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;5&#8217;11.75&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;177 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A deceptive offensive winger with quick hands and a natural instinct for capitalizing on defensive breakdowns. He projects as a solid middle-six scorer who can slide up and down a lineup as needed. Where does his twin brother Liam go? Most scouts believe they&#8217;re better together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Medicine Hat&nbsp;<\/td><td>68<\/td><td>45-59-104<\/td><td>36<\/td><td>+47<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A sixth trade!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/hashtag\/LGRW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#LGRW<\/a> get a first round pick, No. 23 overall, in exchange for goaltender Sebastian Cossa.<br><br>Cossa was taken No. 15 overall in 2021.<\/p>&mdash; Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/frank_seravalli\/status\/2070689917240266930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 27, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">23. Detroit Red Wings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>J.P. Hurlbert<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Kamloops (WHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;5&#8217;11.75&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;183 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The WHL rookie of the year underrated excels at finding trailing teammates and executing complex passing sequences. He projects as a top-nine complementary winger capable of elevating the offensive output of his linemates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Kamloops&nbsp;<\/td><td>68<\/td><td>42-55-97<\/td><td>45<\/td><td>+13<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">24. Vancouver Canucks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Adam Novotny<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Peterborough (OHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;1.25&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;205 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first Czechia player off the board. Novotny is a pure sniper with a an elite release and a knack for finding quiet ice in the offensive zone to let it rip. He projects as a trigger-man in a middle-six role who can serve as a lethal weapon on the power play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Peterborough&nbsp;<\/td><td>58<\/td><td>34-31-65<\/td><td>22<\/td><td>-2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Czechia U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>7<\/td><td>0-3-3<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>-2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">25. Ottawa Senators<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Jonas Lagerberg Hoen<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RW&nbsp;|&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Leksands (SHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;2&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;185&nbsp;lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A&nbsp;highly intriguing, high-volume shooter with an NHL-calibre&nbsp;release, great offensive instincts, and a projectable frame that makes him a true wild card in this draft class. His season was derailed by a torn ACL in October, but his raw scoring tools project him as a potential middle-six, goal-scoring power forward if he can fully recover and refine his 200-foot game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Leksands IF J20<\/td><td>9<\/td><td>9-7-16<\/td><td>33<\/td><td>+10<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Leksands IF&nbsp;<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>0-0-0<\/td><td>0<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trade No. 7!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Vegas also adds a third in 2027 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/79t35KOCPJ\">https:\/\/t.co\/79t35KOCPJ<\/a><\/p>&mdash; Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/FriedgeHNIC\/status\/2070695147050827813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 27, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">26. Montreal Canadiens <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Gleb Pugachyov<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Torpedo Nizhny (KHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;3&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;198 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A highly physical, intimidating power forward who combines a heavy frame with a relentless motor, who made a name for himself by throwing soul-crushing checks. While his offensive toolkit is viewed as a project, his energy, puck protection, and heavy shot project him as an effective, bottom-six NHL winger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Torpedo Nizhny<\/td><td>13<\/td><td>2-1-3<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>+7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Torpedo (VHL)<\/td><td>15<\/td><td>1-4-5<\/td><td>11<\/td><td>0<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Chaika Nizhny (MHL)<\/td><td>33<\/td><td>10-14-24<\/td><td>36<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">27. Philadelphia Flyers <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Maksim Sokolovskii<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong> RD | <strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong> London (OHL) | <strong>Height:<\/strong> 6&#8217;7&#8243; | <strong>Weight:<\/strong> 238 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A colossus on the blue line whose pure size and immense reach make him a natural defensive deterrent. He projects as a raw, high-upside defensive project whose professional future depends on improving his pivot speed and acceleration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>London&nbsp;<\/td><td>44<\/td><td>2-6-8<\/td><td>49<\/td><td>+10<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The eighth trade of the night!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/AnaheimDucks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@AnaheimDucks<\/a> trade up for Marcus Nordmark at 28th overall! \ud83e\udd86 <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/hashtag\/NHLDraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLDraft<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/lHZdavSGxf\">pic.twitter.com\/lHZdavSGxf<\/a><\/p>&mdash; NHL (@NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/NHL\/status\/2070699881241469054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 27, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">28. Anaheim Ducks <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Marcus Nordmark<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;LW |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Djurg\u00e5rdens (SHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;1.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;180 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Puck skills, playmaking and release make him a threat to score. While scouts note that his inconsistent effort levels and defensive habits make him a polarizing prospect, his top-six offensive tools and ability to dictate the pace of play give him NHL potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Team \/ Tournament<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Djurg\u00e5rdens J20&nbsp;<\/td><td>25<\/td><td>14-24-38<\/td><td>48<\/td><td>24<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Djurg\u00e5rdens&nbsp;<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>0-1-1<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>-1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sweden U18&nbsp;<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>3-1-4<\/td><td>28<\/td><td>+1<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">29. Vegas Golden Knights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Juho Piiparinen<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Tappara (Liiga) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;2&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;201 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Piiparinen is a smart, physical puck-moving defenceman who plays a calm and collected game in his own zone while consistently limiting puck-handling mistakes. He projects as a steady, reliable NHL defender capable of executing clean transitions and safely anchoring a bottom-pairing or complementary top-four role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Tappara U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>15<\/td><td>1-12-13<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>+9<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tappara<\/td><td>29<\/td><td>0-3-3<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>+6<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Finland U20&nbsp;<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>0-0-1<\/td><td>0<\/td><td>+6<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">30. Calgary Flames<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Jack<\/strong> <strong>Hextall<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;C |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Youngstown (USHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;6&#8217;0.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;188 lbsAn aggressive centre who thrives on agitating opponents and forcing turnovers on the forecheck. He projects as a gritty, high-character bottom-six pivot who excels in a checking capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Youngstown&nbsp;<\/td><td>59<\/td><td>20-38-58<\/td><td>28<\/td><td>+8<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Last trade of the night&#8230;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Per commissioner, Hurricanes get 42 &amp; 57 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/WMrxdga0Qh\">https:\/\/t.co\/WMrxdga0Qh<\/a><\/p>&mdash; Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/FriedgeHNIC\/status\/2070703065242402907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 27, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">31. Nashville Predators <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tommy Bleyl<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position:<\/strong>&nbsp;RD |&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 Team:<\/strong>&nbsp;Moncton (QMJHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height:<\/strong>&nbsp;5&#8217;11&#8221; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight:<\/strong>&nbsp;162 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bleyl is a highly intelligent, offensive-leaning blueliner who consistently joins the rush and acts as a fourth forward in the offensive zone. He projects as a specialized, puck-moving depth D-man whose value is tied heavily to his power-play deployment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>TEAM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Moncton<\/td><td>63<\/td><td>13-68-81<\/td><td>33<\/td><td>+5<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">32. Ottawa Senators<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Jaxon Cover&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Position<\/strong>: LW | 2025-26&nbsp;<strong>Team<\/strong>: London (OHL) |&nbsp;<strong>Height<\/strong>: 6&#8217;1.5&#8243; |&nbsp;<strong>Weight<\/strong>: 183 lbs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cover is a raw, late-blooming forward who flashes intriguing offensive creativity and a heavy shot, but his overall game remains fairly one-dimensional. He came up playing roller hockey and didn\u2019t play on the ice until he was 13. He\u2019s a project who could become a middle-six scorer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Team<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>GP<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>G-A-P<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>PIM<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>+\/-<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>London&nbsp;<\/td><td>67<\/td><td>20-32-52<\/td><td>30<\/td><td>+25<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interested in sports betting but a little shy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This article explains&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/sports-betting-and-news\/how-does-sports-betting-work\/\">everything you need to know<\/a>&nbsp;about how to navigate the sportsbook, what certain terms mean, how to understand odds and betting tactics. Give it a read, it\u2019s information you\u2019ll need in your playbook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to bet on sports<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/tooniebet.ca\/ca\/login\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Log in<\/a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/tooniebet.ca\/ca\/registration\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">register<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Navigate to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/tooniebet.ca\/ca\/sport\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sports betting page<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Find your favourite sports and bet player props, build SGPs, or bet live.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to live bet sports<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Navigate to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/tooniebet.ca\/ca\/live-betting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">live sports page<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Follow the match trackers, real-time odds and stats, and bet.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Feature image courtesy AP Photo\/Adrian Kraus vis Canadian Press Images<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tooniebet.ca\/ca\/responsible-gaming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"856\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Responsible-Gaming-Banner-Sports.webp\" alt=\"ToonieBet is invested in responsible gaming. Please play safe.\" class=\"wp-image-1232\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Responsible-Gaming-Banner-Sports.webp 856w, https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Responsible-Gaming-Banner-Sports-300x70.webp 300w, https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Responsible-Gaming-Banner-Sports-768x179.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 856px) 100vw, 856px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><em>The content is provided for general informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute betting advice, financial advice, or a recommendation to place any wager. Odds are subject to change. Sports wagering involves risk, and there is no guarantee of success or profit. For Ontario residents, participation in regulated online gaming is restricted to individuals 19 years of age or older. Please play responsibly. If gambling is no longer fun or may be causing harm, support is available through recognized gambling resources like&nbsp;<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/connexontario.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><em>ConnexOntario<\/em><\/a><em>. Terms and conditions apply where applicable.<\/em><br><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>After all the hype, all prospect reports, all the mock drafts and all the trades, the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo arrived Friday night. Leafs super fan Justin Bieber kicked things off with commissioner Gary Bettman to introduce Penn State winger Gavin McKenna as the No. 1-overall pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite McKenna [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":1597,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[77,64],"tags":[72],"class_list":["post-1594","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hockey","category-sports-betting-and-news","tag-nhl"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1594","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1594"}],"version-history":[{"count":55,"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1594\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1688,"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1594\/revisions\/1688"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1597"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1594"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1594"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.tooniebet.ca\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1594"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}