NHL Mock Draft 2026: A First Look at the Future Stars

The 2026 NHL Draft is already generating significant buzz, and for good reason. A new crop of exceptionally talented players is emerging, promising to reshape the landscape of the National Hockey League. This mock draft provides an early look at how the first round could unfold, analyzing top prospects and predicting where they might land. We’ll delve into player profiles, team needs, and potential draft-day surprises. Keep in mind, this is a very early projection, and player development and team strategies can shift dramatically over the next two years.

Key Prospects to Watch

• Mackenzie Bell (C): Widely considered the potential #1 overall pick, Bell boasts exceptional skating ability, a high hockey IQ, and a knack for scoring. He’s currently dominating the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Elite Prospects Profile
• Aleksander Volkov (D): A towering defenseman with a powerful shot and shutdown capabilities. Volkov plays in the KHL and is attracting attention from NHL scouts for his maturity and physical presence.
• Isabelle “Izzy” Dubois (W): A dynamic winger with incredible speed and offensive instincts. Dubois is breaking barriers in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL) and is a potential game-changer.
• Javier Ramirez (G): A highly touted goaltender with exceptional reflexes and a calm demeanor under pressure. Ramirez is currently playing in the USHL and is projected to be a top-tier netminder.
• Kenji Tanaka (C): A skilled playmaker with exceptional vision and passing ability. Tanaka is making waves in the Japanese Hockey League and is a rising star.

Mock Draft – First Round Predictions

Here’s a projected first round, keeping in mind team needs and potential player availability. This is based on current standings and projected development trajectories. The draft order is based on projected inverse standings as of November 2024.

• 1. San Jose Sharks: Mackenzie Bell (C)
• 2. Chicago Blackhawks: Aleksander Volkov (D)
• 3. Anaheim Ducks: Isabelle “Izzy” Dubois (W)
• 4. Montreal Canadiens: Javier Ramirez (G)
• 5. Arizona Coyotes: Kenji Tanaka (C)
• 6. Philadelphia Flyers: Liam O’Connell (LW)
• 7. Nashville Predators: Noah Peterson (C)
• 8. Washington Capitals: Ethan Davies (D)
• 9. St. Louis Blues: Samuel Moreau (RW)
• 10. Calgary Flames: Benjamin Carter (C)

This NHL Mock Draft 2026 is just the beginning of the conversation. As the season progresses and players continue to develop, these predictions will undoubtedly evolve. Stay tuned for further updates and analysis as we get closer to draft day! For more in-depth scouting reports, visit NHL.com’s Draft Coverage.