The 2027 NHL Draft’s Emerging Stars
The 2027 NHL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent memory, with a talent pool that blends elite skating, offensive flair and international depth. At the center of the conversation is Landon DuPont, a 15‑year‑old defenseman who became the WHL’s first exceptional‑status player and the second ever to earn that designation in a draft class.
DuPont’s rise has been meteoric. He set the WHL’s U16 scoring record with 60 points in 64 games and helped the Silvertips capture the 2026 championship, contributing 102 points in 2026. Scouts praise his play‑driving ability, zone exits, shot creation and a lethal curl‑and‑drag release, noting his elite mobility and competitive edge.
International Profiles
The Russian contingent adds another layer of intrigue. Forward Privalov led CSKA to two hat‑tricks in his first eight MHL games, while defenseman Skvortsov topped Nizhny Novgorod in scoring with flashy moves and breakaway speed. Both are viewed as high‑upside prospects, with Privalov’s size and raw talent drawing comparisons to Juraj Slafkovský.
Swedish center Sundström impressed as the top player on Sweden’s U17 and U18 squads, posting a goal‑per‑game rate in the J20 league, while Swiss forward Neuenschwander made headlines by debuting in the NHL and the World Junior circuit at 15, showcasing elite skating and a hard release.
Canada’s forward Joseph, the No. 1 pick in the 2025 QMJHL draft, dominated the World Under‑17 Hockey Challenge with six goals in five games, and Zhilkin, captain of the Saginaw Spirit, contributed seven points in five games at the U18 Worlds. England, a Canadian centre, is celebrated as the class’s best skater, boasting electric breakaway speed, while Nelson follows his brother Danny’s path to Notre Dame, combining a pro‑level shot with strong stride and unselfish play.
Scouting reports consistently highlight physical attributes, offensive upside and development trajectories. While DuPont leads the top‑32 list, the depth of the class suggests a promising pipeline of talent that could shape the NHL’s next generation.