
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 Oscar Hemming 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 Nashville Predators' 10th overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft could land one of five elite wingers, each bringing distinct skills, family legacies and collegiate commitments.

The 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo will showcase a complex talent pipeline where NCAA and Major Junior players vie for top spots, highlighting emerging stars and the growing influence of elite collegiate programs.

The upcoming NHL Draft in Buffalo will showcase an unprecedented number of current and committed NCAA Division I players, highlighting the growing impact of college hockey on the professional ranks.

The Flyers hold the 21st pick and are weighing several forward prospects, each bringing distinct attributes that could shape the club’s future.

Analysts project Oscar Hemming as a top‑15 pick for Columbus, while other prospects and trade rumors add intrigue to the franchise's draft strategy.

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.

A look at the players whose skating, shooting, and competitiveness are setting the standard for the next wave of NHL talent.

The St. Louis Blues hold three first‑round selections in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft, set for June 26 in Buffalo. A deep dive into the ten prospects under consideration highlights a blend of size, skill and hockey IQ that could reshape the franchise’s future.

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 NHL draft and free agency approaching, Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell is mapping out a plan that blends trade talks, key signings and the development of a deep prospect pool to secure a playoff spot.

An inside look at the leading candidates the Penguins could select in the 2026 NHL Draft, from rising forwards to defensive standouts

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.