A Draft Class With Global Reach
The 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo, New York, turned into a celebration for the Florida Panthers as they revealed a six‑player class that blends European flair with North American grit. The selections underscore the club’s commitment to scouting talent worldwide and to building a pipeline that can sustain success in the years ahead.
Forward Simas Ignatavicius, an 18‑year‑old from Memphis, Tennessee, arrives after a standout season with Genève‑Servette HC in the Swiss National League. His inclusion marks the fourth time a Lithuanian player has been drafted by an NHL team, a milestone that highlights the expanding reach of the sport.
Ryder Cali, a 17‑year‑old forward from Lugano, Switzerland, earned a spot on Canada’s U‑18 World Junior Championship roster before returning to the Ontario Hockey League with the North Bay Battalion. His offensive instincts and international experience make him a versatile addition to the Panthers’ forward group.
Defenseman Jonas Kemps, an 18‑year‑old from Sebastopol, California, spent the last season with the Chicago Steel of the USHL and has committed to the NCAA’s Michigan State Spartans for the 2027‑28 campaign. The move to college hockey provides a clear development pathway that aligns with the Panthers’ long‑term player development strategy.
Vilho Vanhatalo, an 18‑year‑old forward from Tampere, Finland, helped Tappara Tampere capture the Liiga U‑18 championship in 2024‑25. The championship experience underscores his ability to thrive in Finland’s competitive junior circuit and adds depth to the Panthers’ European scouting portfolio.
Cole Zurawski, an 18‑year‑old forward from Etobicoke, Ontario, logged strong minutes with the Owen Sound Attack in the OHL and has pledged to attend the University of Notre Dame beginning in 2026‑27. His dual commitment to academics and athletics reflects a growing trend among prospects to pursue a balanced collegiate experience.
Goaltender Louis‑Antoine Denault, a 19‑year‑old from Quebec City, Quebec, wrapped up his Quebec Major Junior Hockey League tenure and attended Florida’s development camp and prospect tournament in 2025. The camp experience positioned him as a potential future net‑minder for the Panthers and gave him exposure to the organization’s coaching staff.
Building the Future
General Manager Bill Zito emphasized that the class reflects the team’s global scouting philosophy, noting that each prospect has demonstrated the ability to adapt to new environments and contribute at multiple levels. With a blend of European experience, Canadian junior pedigree, and American development, the Panthers’ 2026 draft class is poised to enrich the organization’s depth chart and add fresh energy to the roster as the franchise looks to build on its recent successes.