2026 NHL Mock Draft: Top Picks Following Gavin McKenna

The excitement surrounding the 2026 NHL Draft is palpable, with a class brimming with talent ready to make waves. This year, the first round is teeming with star potential, particularly within the top ten, which features a plethora of big, strong-skating defensemen known for their offensive prowess. As teams eye their futures, it’s noteworthy that several first-round picks have already changed hands, with the St. Louis Blues boasting four and the San Jose Sharks holding three.

In crafting this mock draft, we aim to present not just rankings but a glimpse into how the selections could unfold on draft day. Unlike our value board, which strictly evaluates prospects in a vacuum, this mock draft considers the dynamic scenarios that could arise, making for an engaging exercise in speculation.

A crucial lottery win has positioned the Toronto Maple Leafs to possibly replace the offensive spark lost with Mitch Marner’s departure to Vegas. Enter Gavin McKenna, a playmaking winger whose skill set mirrors that of Marner, making him the clear-cut choice at No. 1. The discussion around McKenna has been ongoing, and it’s time to put any debate to rest.

At No. 2, the Sharks are expected to select Ivar Stenberg, a right-shot offensive defenseman who fits their vision for adding young talent. Other general managers may be tempted to trade up, but the Sharks will demand a hefty return for that pick.

The Vancouver Canucks are poised to fill a pressing need for a strong center by selecting Malhotra, a player with NHL pedigree and the skills to back it up. His father, Manny, serves as the head coach, adding a personal touch to this potential selection.

In Buffalo, general manager Jarmo Kekalainen is weighing offers for his pick. Should he hold onto it, Stenberg would be the best player available if he falls to them. If not, they might pivot to a defenseman to bolster their lineup.

The New York Rangers will be thrilled with a potential pick of Reid, who scored 20 goals last season and is projected to develop into a No. 1 defenseman. Standing at 6-4, he combines size with a well-rounded game, making him a coveted asset.

Another intriguing prospect is the dynamic Swedish player who has already made a name for himself in the Swedish Hockey League. Despite being on the smaller side, he boasts breakaway speed, and his recent achievement as the youngest player to score at the men’s world championships at just 18 years old speaks volumes about his potential.

As the draft progresses, teams will also be eyeing highly skilled players who can make an immediate impact. With several blueliners available, one standout is a player who scored 28 goals and amassed 78 points in 68 games—a testament to the depth of talent in this draft.

Teams value big, physical centers, and one such player projected to go high is noted for his two-way game reminiscent of Aleksander Barkov. His ability to blend skill with physicality makes him a top prospect.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils are seeking to enhance their scoring options. Novotny, a two-way player known for his rugged style, is on their radar, having scored 34 goals last season.

Another player drawing attention is a 6-foot-3 defenseman who combines solid skating with a physical presence and offensive capabilities. His aggressive approach and ability to apply pressure on opponents could make him a valuable addition.

As teams look to solidify their rosters, the draft will feature several players with elite scoring potential, including a 6-foot-4 winger known for his punishing shot and ability to play a physical game. The draft class also includes smaller, highly skilled puck movers, creating a diverse array of options for teams.

As the anticipation builds, the 2026 NHL Draft promises to be a pivotal moment for many franchises, reshaping their futures with the selection of these talented prospects.

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