
2026 NHL Draft: First‑Round Forecasts and Surprise Picks
The upcoming first round of the 2026 NHL Draft features a flurry of trades, a deep talent pool, and several unexpected placements that could reshape the league’s future.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Adam Novotny across Hockey.

The upcoming first round of the 2026 NHL Draft features a flurry of trades, a deep talent pool, and several unexpected placements that could reshape the league’s future.

With the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft set for tomorrow, a collaborative mock projection by Will James and Jack Studley offers a snapshot of the talent that could reshape teams' fortunes.

The 2026 NHL Draft will unfold over two nights in Buffalo, with the Rangers holding two first‑round picks and a host of prospects poised to hear their names called.

The upcoming draft class boasts a deep pool of talent across skating, shooting, puck‑handling, competitiveness and defensive versatility, with several prospects already drawing comparisons to established NHL stars.

The Toronto Maple Leafs hold the opening selection in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft, a moment that will shape the franchise's future as experts dissect the talent pool and broadcast plans unfold.

The Athletic’s annual mock draft for the 2026 NHL Draft blends scouting insight with franchise strategy, highlighting key selections and emerging storylines.

The Philadelphia Flyers are poised to make a notable selection at the 21st overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, eyeing Swedish winger prospect Elton Hermansson. His international pedigree and offensive upside have sparked discussion among the team’s leadership and external analysts.

Top OHL prospects deliver record performances at the 2026 NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo, setting the stage for the upcoming draft.

The New York Islanders met several draft‑eligible players at the 2026 NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo, including a list of prospects and Tony Ferrari’s top‑ranked names, ahead of the June 26‑27 draft at the KeyBank Center.