The 2026 NHL Draft will be remembered for a milestone that unfolded in Seattle, where the Kraken made a historic selection that resonated far beyond the usual buzz of prospect evaluations.
A Homegrown Talent Emerges
Luken “Hawke” Huff, a 20‑year‑old defenseman, became the first player ever drafted from Washington state, a fact that underscored the depth of talent emerging from the region.
Born on January 1, 2006, in Mazama, Washington, Huff first laced up skates on a modest outdoor rink in Winthrop before moving to Cedar Rapids and later Sioux Falls, where he refined his game in the United States Hockey League.
During the most recent USHL season he tallied three goals and 39 points in 61 appearances, earning the league’s Defenseman of the Year award and drawing praise from veteran amateur scout Thomas Plante, who highlighted Huff’s character and upward trajectory.
Looking Ahead
The Kraken’s decision also reflects a broader strategy of investing in players who can contribute immediately, and Huff is slated to join the University of St. Thomas next fall, where he will continue to develop under a program that has become a notable feeder for the NHL. Coaches and analysts alike expect the young defenseman to bring a blend of size, poise, and offensive awareness to the college ranks, setting the stage for a potential NHL debut that could mirror the early impact of other Washington‑born players.