
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 Mathis Preston 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.

A look at the upcoming 2026 NHL Entry Draft, where The Hockey News writers outline likely first‑overall choices, possible trades and the Vancouver Canucks' projected picks.

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.

With the draft less than three weeks away, analysts from The Athletic break down the Canucks’ options, emphasizing Caleb Malhotra’s two‑way game and the potential impact of other prospects.

The Vancouver Canucks sent a bigger, more diverse delegation to the NHL Scouting Combine, where prospects noted a laid‑back atmosphere that prioritized getting to know them as people.

From a gold‑medal performance with Canada to a mid‑season trade, Mathis Preston's season reflects both the promise and the challenges of a rising hockey star.