The 2026 NHL draft has produced a notable surprise for college hockey fans: four players who will soon wear the Ohio State Buckeyes jersey were among the selections. The early‑round picks underscore a pipeline that has been building for several seasons, linking the university’s development program directly to the professional ranks.
Benjamin Wilmott, a forward who refined his game in both the USHL and the OHL, heard his name called by the Vegas Golden Knights in the third round. His reputation as a high‑scoring forward preceded him, and the Knights were eager to add his offensive firepower to their roster.
Evan Jardine, a center who represented the United States at the 2025 World Junior A Challenge, was chosen by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the fourth round. Jardine’s blend of playmaking skill and defensive responsibility made him an attractive prospect for a team looking to bolster its forward depth.
Defenseman William Tomko, a participant in the 2026 Chipotle All‑American Game, was taken by the Seattle Kraken in the seventh round. Tomko’s physical style and steady growth in the USHL highlighted his potential as a reliable blue‑line presence.
A New Era for Buckeye Hockey
What makes this draft class special is not just the individual talent, but the fact that the NHL drafts players before they step onto a college campus, retaining their rights until they graduate. This rule allows teams to lock in prospects early, shaping their development paths long before they ever wear a Buckeyes sweater.
The selections underscore a broader trend: programs that develop players in high‑competition junior leagues are increasingly viewed as fertile ground for NHL teams looking to secure future talent. For Ohio State, the presence of three prospects across three different NHL organizations reflects the depth of its recruiting and development pipeline.
Coaches and analysts alike predict that the influx of former Buckeyes into the NHL will only grow as the university continues to invest in its hockey infrastructure. With state‑of‑the‑art facilities and a coaching staff that emphasizes both skill and character, Ohio State is positioning itself as a premier destination for aspiring professionals.