The 2026 Upper Deck NHL Entry Draft will be held at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, on June 26‑27, bringing the league’s top prospects to a city known for its passionate hockey culture.
A Tradition That Spans Decades
The University of Minnesota has cemented its reputation as a draft factory, boasting a nation‑leading 248 all‑time selections and a streak that has seen at least one Gopher chosen in 51 of the past 52 drafts since 1974.
Friday, June 26, will see the first 32 picks unfold at 6 p.m. Central Time, streamed live on ESPN and ESPN+. The action will continue the next morning when the final six rounds begin at 10 a.m. Central Time, with coverage on both the NHL Network and ESPN+.