2026 NHL Draft Outlook: McKenna Leading the Pack, Four Defensemen in His Rearview
In the latest rankings from TSN’s Director of Scouting Craig Button, one name stands out above the rest as the likely No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft: Gavin McKenna. However, the race for the top defenseman spot is heating up, with four blueliners nipping at McKenna’s heels.
McKenna: The Unchallenged Leader
Despite not dominating the NCAA like he did in junior hockey, Button remains unimpressed with McKenna’s game. The 18-year-old Penn State winger has four goals and 18 points in 16 games this season, but his impressive track record speaks for itself: 41 goals and 129 points in 56 games with the Medicine Hat Tigers last season, along with WHL and CHL Player of the Year awards.
“Gavin McKenna has had a big, big sample size of exceptional play. And when you project that out, no question that he’s the best player in the draft for me.”
— Craig Button
Stenberg: The Close Second
Trailing McKenna by a narrow margin is Frolunda forward Ivar Stenberg. The 18-year-old Swedish winger has been making waves in the SHL, with five goals and 20 points in 21 games. His international experience, including medals at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and World Junior A Challenge, further cements his status as a top prospect.
2026’s Defensive Core: A Four-Way Tussle
Behind McKenna and Stenberg, a quartet of defensemen are locked in a tight battle for supremacy. In the mix are:
- Keaton Verhoeff – University of North Dakota (NCAA)
- Juho Piiparinen – Tappara (SM Liiga Jr)
- Chase Reid – Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
- Carson Carels – Prince George (WHL)
Reid, in particular, has been turning heads in the OHL, leading all league defensemen with 10 goals and 28 points in 25 games.
“He’s just a really well-rounded defender,” Button praised. “The way the game is played now, you’ve got to be able to make plays with the puck coming out of your zone, in transition, in the offensive zone. You’ve got to be able to think fast and skate fast. Chase Reid has all those qualities.”
Rising Stars and Uncertain Prospects
Other players making strides on Button’s list include Oliver Suvanto, who climbed to No. 8, and Cooper Williams at No. 19. Oscar Hemming, meanwhile, sits at No. 10 despite being unable to play due to a “legal quagmire,” illustrating the uncertainty surrounding his status for the upcoming season.
Climbing the rankings and making names for themselves, these prospects continue to shape the fascinating landscape of the 2026 NHL Draft.
FAQ
Who is the current No. 1 pick in Craig Button’s rankings?
Gavin McKenna, Penn State (NCAA) winger
What are the top four defensive prospects according to Craig Button?
Keaton Verhoeff, Juho Piiparinen, Chase Reid, and Carson Carels
Which player has climbed the most in Craig Button’s latest rankings?
Oliver Suvanto, Tappara (SM Liiga Jr) center
Pro Tips: Keep an Eye On…
- Gavin McKenna’s continued domination despite the new level of competition in the NCAA.
- The battle Royale among the top four defensemen – who will ultimately claim the top spot behind McKenna?
- Oscar Hemming’s status and potential impact on the draft as the season progresses.
Join the Conversation
With the debate raging for the top spot in the 2026 NHL Draft, who do you think will reign supreme? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow hockey enthusiasts!
In the spirit of evergreen content, stay tuned for more updates and opinions on the NHL’s future stars!