2026 NHL Mock Draft: Top-16 Picks with Blackhawks Set for 4th Overall Selection

The 2026 NHL Draft Lottery unfolded on Tuesday night, reshaping the landscape for several teams. The Toronto Maple Leafs emerged victorious, securing the coveted first overall pick, while the San Jose Sharks followed closely with the second pick. As a result, non-playoff teams experienced a shuffle down the standings, including the Vancouver Canucks, who fell to third. This shift leaves the Chicago Blackhawks with the fourth overall selection, an outcome that, while not ideal, still promises a remarkable prospect for the franchise.

Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson expressed a clear intention to select the best player available, regardless of position, unless he opts to trade the pick. With the draft order settled, here’s a look at how the first round could shape up for the 16 lottery teams:

1. Toronto Maple Leafs – Gavin McKenna, LW, Penn State

The Maple Leafs’ lottery win has dramatically altered their offseason strategy. Rather than considering trades involving stars like Auston Matthews or Matthew Knies, Toronto can now focus on adding a talent like Gavin McKenna. Set to make an immediate impact at even strength and on the power play, McKenna’s skills are nearly NHL-ready, positioning him to become a star quickly.

2. San Jose Sharks – Chase Reid, D, Sault Ste. Marie

While Ivar Stenberg was once viewed as a near-lock for the top pick, the Sharks’ second overall selection allows them to pivot their strategy. With a pressing need for defensive depth, San Jose could target one of three elite defensemen. Chase Reid stands out with his two-way game, drawing comparisons to Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer. His potential could persuade the Sharks to select him.

3. Vancouver Canucks – Caleb Malhotra, C, Brantford

The Canucks are keenly aware of their need for strength down the middle, making Caleb Malhotra an appealing option. With his father, Manny, serving as the head coach for the Abbotsford Canucks, Caleb has quickly ascended the draft rankings thanks to his exceptional performance in Brantford, showcasing his capabilities as a two-way centerman.

4. Chicago Blackhawks – Ivar Stenberg, LW, Frolunda

For the Blackhawks, landing Ivar Stenberg at fourth overall represents a significant win. His availability is a fortunate outcome given the draft’s circumstances. By selecting Stenberg, Chicago not only adds a talented winger but also pairs him with Anton Frondell, a familiar face from World Junior play, enhancing their offensive potential.

5. New York Rangers – Keaton Verhoeff, D, North Dakota

Keaton Verhoeff, boasting the highest offensive ceiling among defensemen in this draft class, would be a strategic fit for the rebuilding New York Rangers. With the opportunity to learn under the guidance of Adam Fox, Verhoeff could expedite the Rangers’ return to competitiveness.

6. Calgary Flames – Carson Carels, D, Prince George

Completing the top six in the draft, Carson Carels is poised to be a game-changer for whichever team selects him. The Calgary Flames, building a formidable roster for the 2030s, would benefit significantly from adding Carels to their lineup.

7. Seattle Kraken – Alberts Smits, D, Jukurit

The Seattle Kraken would bolster their defensive lineup by selecting Alberts Smits, who has the potential to become a star. His previous experience as an Olympian for Latvia signals his readiness to make an NHL roster shortly after the draft.

8. Winnipeg Jets – Daxon Rudolph, D, Prince Albert

After an unexpected finish following their President’s Trophy win, the Winnipeg Jets find themselves in a prime position to add a top prospect. Daxon Rudolph could be the key to sustaining their success as they strive to regain their competitive edge.

9. Florida Panthers – Tynan Lawrence, C, Boston University

The Florida Panthers’ top-ten pick comes as a surprise, particularly since the Chicago Blackhawks anticipated acquiring an additional first-rounder from them. Selecting Tynan Lawrence from Boston University would be a smart move, allowing them to deepen their center position.

10. Nashville Predators – Viggo Bjorck, RW, Djurgarden

Viggo Bjorck is an ideal addition for the Nashville Predators. As one of Sweden’s standout young players, he contributed significantly to Sweden’s Gold medal at the World Juniors. Bjorck’s skill set presents an exciting opportunity for Nashville.

11. St. Louis Blues – Oscar Hemming, RW, Boston College

Boston College continues to produce first-round NHL talent, and Oscar Hemming is the latest prospect ready to make an impact. The St. Louis Blues would benefit from drafting Hemming, regardless of potential trades involving Robert Thomas or Jordan Kyrou.

12. New Jersey Devils – J.P. Hurlbert, LW, Kamloops

The New Jersey Devils remain on the lookout for wingers to complement their star players, Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier. J.P. Hurlbert, set to join Michigan next season, is expected to shine in college hockey and could be a valuable addition to New Jersey’s roster.

13. New York Islanders – Ethan Belchetz, LW, Windsor

Despite not having the same luck as in previous lotteries, the New York Islanders continue to build a robust pipeline of young talent. Adding Ethan Belchetz from Windsor would further strengthen their lineup.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets – Adam Novotny, LW, Peterborough

As the Columbus Blue Jackets aim to cultivate a successful future, adding young forwards remains crucial. Adam Novotny represents a solid choice at 14, contributing to their long-term development.

15. St. Louis Blues via Detroit Red Wings – Brooks Rogowski, RW, Oshawa

With another lottery pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, the St. Louis Blues are set to add Brooks Rogowski, a promising winger, to their growing pool of young talent.

16. Washington Capitals – Ryan Lin, D, Vancouver

As the future of Alex Ovechkin looms large in the hockey conversation, the Washington Capitals are focused on their long-term prospects. Ryan Lin, a talented defenseman from Vancouver, could significantly enhance their blue line.

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