A Twin Threat in the WHL
Liam Ruck, a 17‑year‑old forward from Osoyoos, British Columbia, has quickly become one of the most talked‑about prospects heading into the 2026 NHL Draft. His twin brother Markus, also a top prospect, shares the ice with him on the Medicine Hat Tigers, creating a unique dynamic that scouts are eager to dissect.
In his breakout WHL season, Ruck recorded 45 goals and 104 points across 68 games, positioning himself among the league’s leading scorers. The right‑handed winger combines a sharp hockey IQ with a relentless work ethic, often contributing defensively while maintaining a high‑volume scoring touch.
What stands out is his ability to read the game and make quick decisions, traits that compensate for an average skating stride and a 6‑foot‑0, 176‑pound frame. Scouts have praised his tenacity and goal‑scoring instincts, even as they note the need for continued development in speed and size.
Draft Outlook and Team Strategy
The conversation around Ruck’s draft position is nuanced. While some rankings flirt with the top ten, the broader consensus places him somewhere between the late first and early second rounds. A key question for teams is how his performance might shift if he and Markus are selected by different clubs, potentially altering his role and motivation.
The New Jersey Devils, slated to pick 12th overall, have been linked to Ruck in recent mock drafts, yet internal reports suggest the franchise would prefer to wait until the later stages of the first round or even the second before committing. Selecting him later could allow the organization to evaluate his adaptability and fit within their system while also managing the narrative surrounding the twin brothers.
If the Devils were to draft Ruck in the later rounds, it could provide a versatile forward who contributes both offensively and defensively, adding depth to a roster that values adaptability and work ethic. The decision will ultimately hinge on how the team weighs his immediate impact against the potential long‑term benefits of a player who thrives in a competitive environment.