2026 NHL Mock Draft: Blackhawks Eyeing Top Pick with Gavin McKenna

The anticipation surrounding the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery is building as it approaches on May 5th. This unique weighted lottery will determine which team secures the coveted first overall pick, with the Chicago Blackhawks holding the second-best odds at 13.5%. The Vancouver Canucks lead the pack at 25.5%, while the New York Rangers trail closely behind at 11.5%. The implications of this lottery are significant, potentially reshaping the futures of several franchises.

If the Blackhawks manage to clinch the top pick, it would be hard for them to overlook Gavin McKenna, a forward from Penn State. McKenna has faced his share of challenges, but his talent is undeniable, making him an ideal fit for a Chicago team looking to rebuild. His connection to Connor Bedard, already a prominent figure in the organization, could facilitate a smoother transition to the NHL following a strong college season, particularly in the latter half. Should McKenna don a Blackhawks jersey, he could find himself on the NHL roster as early as next season.

The Vancouver Canucks, with their storied history of selecting Swedish talent, might look to Ivar Stenberg if they secure the second overall pick. Stenberg’s impressive performance at the World Junior Championships, where he helped lead his team to a Gold Medal, has solidified his status as a top-three draft candidate. Given the current state of the Canucks’ lineup, there would be ample opportunity for Stenberg to make an immediate impact.

For the New York Rangers, Caleb Malhotra has emerged as a hot name on the draft board. Originally not expected to be in this conversation, the Rangers would view Malhotra as a valuable addition, capable of transforming their franchise with his exceptional two-way play. His style is a rarity among the Rangers’ current young forwards, positioning him as a cornerstone for their future.

The Calgary Flames have demonstrated a strong track record in the draft, particularly with NCAA players. Selecting Keaton Verhoeff, a talented offensive defenseman, would bolster their prospect depth. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs could benefit from Chase Reid, whose two-way game aligns with their long-term strategy.

The Seattle Kraken are in dire need of offensive firepower, making Tynan Lawrence an intriguing option. Although it remains uncertain if he can fully realize his potential, Lawrence’s upside as a forward could be a game-changer for the Kraken. Similarly, the Winnipeg Jets, who surprised many by winning the President’s Trophy last season, could find a promising addition in defenseman Carson Carels.

The Florida Panthers, despite being the reigning Stanley Cup champions, find themselves in the top ten of the draft and would likely select forward Viggo Bjorck. The San Jose Sharks, coming off a season that exceeded expectations, are also looking to shore up their defense with Daxon Rudolph.

The Nashville Predators excel in drafting defensemen, and Alberts Smits would be a fitting choice for their organizational needs. The St. Louis Blues are contemplating the future of their star forwards, and Oliver Suvanto could be a wise pick to replenish their talent pool.

For the New Jersey Devils, the question of how a prospect like Oscar Hemming would mesh with stars like Jack Hughes or Nico Hischier is crucial. The New York Islanders, fresh off a successful draft lottery in 2025, could continue their momentum with forward Ethan Belchetz.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have a penchant for selecting skilled defensemen, making Ryan Lin a prime candidate. The Blues, via a pick from the Detroit Red Wings, might look to Malte Gustafsson to enhance their defensive pipeline.

The Washington Capitals could select Nikita Kiepov, who will play at Michigan State next season, while the Los Angeles Kings are in need of a talent infusion as they transition away from veteran leadership. Adam Novonty could fit the bill as a promising Czech-born forward.

With the Capitals potentially holding two picks late in the first round, Ilya Morozov would be a sensible choice to help build their new forward core. The Utah Mammoth, enjoying a successful season, could opt for Swedish forward Marcus Nordmark.

The San Jose Sharks, with a strategy to balance their draft selections, could take Elton Hermansson, a skilled forward. The Philadelphia Flyers, still in contention, would view Xavier Villenueve as a valuable future defenseman.

The Pittsburgh Penguins, who recently found success with a young prospect, will look to JP Hurlbert to continue that trend. The Boston Bruins could enhance their blue line with Juho Piiparinen, while the Vancouver Canucks, via a pick from the Minnesota Wild, might select forward Yegor Shilov.

The Montreal Canadiens have remained committed to their rebuild, and Mathis Preston could be a key piece moving forward. The Seattle Kraken, benefiting from another selection via the Tampa Bay Lightning, may consider Wyatt Cullen, son of former NHL player Matt Cullen.

As the Rangers prepare to make picks both early and late in the first round, Niklas Aaram-Olsen could help replenish their forward ranks. The Calgary Flames, also with multiple picks, might find a gem in forward Simas Ignatavicius.

The Buffalo Sabres, not accustomed to picking in the lower third of the first round, could secure forward Maddox Dagenais. The Carolina Hurricanes have a knack for maximizing late-round picks, and Liam Ruck could be a solid addition.

Finally, the St. Louis Blues hold the first-round pick from the Colorado Avalanche, which could land them Alexander Command, while the Ottawa Senators, locked into the 32nd overall pick, may look to bolster their defensive prospects with William Hakansson. This selection comes as a result of the NHL restoring their pick following a controversial trade situation.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.