2026 NHL Draft rankings are buzzing right now, especially with the midterm lists fresh off the press and some dramatic off-ice news shaking things up. We’re only months away from seeing this talented class hit the stage in June, but the picture at the top is anything but settled. You’ve got elite skill, size, international intrigue, and now character questions all colliding to make the 2026 NHL Draft rankings one of the most fascinating in years. Who’s going No. 1? Is the presumed favorite still holding firm? Let’s break it all down in this comprehensive look at the 2026 NHL Draft rankings.
If you’ve been following prospects for a while, you know this class has been hyped for its high-end offensive talent and surprising defensive depth. But recent events have added a layer of uncertainty that every NHL team will have to navigate. We’ll cover the official lists, independent scout views, detailed prospect breakdowns, and what might shift the board between now and draft day.
Overview of the 2026 NHL Draft Class
The 2026 crop feels different. There’s no single runaway Connor Bedard-type superstar dominating every conversation, but there are several players who could realistically go first overall depending on team needs and risk tolerance. Offensive dynamos, big-bodied defensemen, and a strong European contingent give general managers plenty of options.
North American skaters still lead the headlines, but Swedish forward Ivar Stenberg has forced his way into the 1OA discussion with a monster season in the SHL. Add in NCAA freshmen making immediate impacts and you’ve got a class that’s deep, competitive, and wide open at the very top. These 2026 NHL Draft rankings reflect that balance—scouts love the ceilings, but there are questions about consistency, physical maturity, and now off-ice maturity for some.
NHL Central Scouting Midterm Rankings: The Official Baseline
Every January, NHL Central Scouting drops its midterm rankings, and they’re the gold standard that teams reference heavily. For the 2026 NHL Draft rankings, the big story was Gavin McKenna holding onto the No. 1 North American skater spot despite stiff competition.
Here are the top 10 North American skaters according to Central Scouting (January 2026):
- Gavin McKenna – LW – Penn State (Big Ten)
- Keaton Verhoeff – RD – North Dakota (NCHC)
- Tynan Lawrence – C – Boston University (Hockey East)
- Chase Reid – LW – USNTDP
- Carson Carels – RW – Medicine Hat (WHL)
- Caleb Malhotra – C – Erie (OHL)
- Alberts Smits – LD – Fargo (USHL)
- Ryker Edwards – RD – Waterloo (USHL)
- Lucas Karmiris – C – London (OHL)
- Ben Robertson – LD – USNTDP
On the international side, Ivar Stenberg topped the list, followed by other Europeans like Viktor Klingsell and Anton Frondell.
These rankings tend to be conservative—Central Scouting values proven production against strong competition, which is why McKenna and Verhoeff sit so high after dominant NCAA freshman campaigns.
For the full official list, check out the NHL Central Scouting midterm rankings.
Independent Scout Rankings: Where the Debate Really Heats Up
While Central Scouting gives us the baseline, independent outlets often take bolder swings. And in the latest 2026 NHL Draft rankings, there’s a clear split at the top.
Here’s a quick comparison table of mid-to-late January 2026 top 10s from major sources:
| Rank | NHL Central Scouting (NA) | Elite Prospects (Overall) | Daily Faceoff | The Athletic (Pronman) | Tankathon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gavin McKenna | Ivar Stenberg | Ivar Stenberg | Keaton Verhoeff | Gavin McKenna |
| 2 | Keaton Verhoeff | Gavin McKenna | Keaton Verhoeff | Ivar Stenberg | Ivar Stenberg |
| 3 | Tynan Lawrence | Keaton Verhoeff | Gavin McKenna | Chase Reid | Keaton Verhoeff |
| 4 | Chase Reid | Chase Reid | Chase Reid | Gavin McKenna | Tynan Lawrence |
| 5 | Carson Carels | Tynan Lawrence | Tynan Lawrence | Tynan Lawrence | Chase Reid |
| 6 | Caleb Malhotra | Carson Carels | Carson Carels | Carson Carels | Carson Carels |
| 7 | Alberts Smits | Caleb Malhotra | Caleb Malhotra | Caleb Malhotra | Caleb Malhotra |
| 8 | Ryker Edwards | Viktor Klingsell | Alberts Smits | Alberts Smits | Alberts Smits |
| 9 | Lucas Karmiris | Anton Frondell | Ryker Edwards | Ryker Edwards | Ryker Edwards |
| 10 | Ben Robertson | Ryker Edwards | Lucas Karmiris | Lucas Karmiris | Lucas Karmiris |
As you can see, McKenna still appears in every top four, but Stenberg and Verhoeff have serious momentum. Elite Prospects made waves by moving Stenberg to No. 1 after his dominant SHL play, while Pronman at The Athletic went even further by slotting Verhoeff atop his board for his rare combination of size, mobility, and two-way dominance.
You can explore the full Elite Prospects list here.
Top Prospect Breakdowns in the 2026 NHL Draft Rankings
Let’s dig into the players driving all the conversation.
Gavin McKenna: Still the Name on Everyone’s Lips?
Gavin McKenna has been the presumed 1OA pick for over a year. His WHL dominance, record-setting junior seasons, and smooth transition to Penn State made him look like a generational playmaker. Elite vision, deceptive hands, and a knack for controlling tempo—McKenna checks every offensive box.
However, very recent developments have complicated his status. Just hours ago, reports emerged that McKenna has been charged with felony aggravated assault and related offenses stemming from an alleged off-ice incident. These are serious allegations, and teams will conduct extensive due diligence. Character is always a factor at the top of the draft, and outcomes here could cause McKenna to slide despite his on-ice talent.
For a deeper dive into his game before these events, read our detailed [Gavin McKenna 2026 NHL draft scouting report].
Ivar Stenberg: The Swedish Sensation Rising Fast
If anyone is challenging McKenna’s throne, it’s Ivar Stenberg. Playing against men in the SHL with Frölunda, the dual-threat winger has posted eye-popping numbers while showing high-end skill, competitiveness, and a wicked shot. Scouts love his blend of size (6’1”), speed, and finishing ability. Many now see him as the most complete forward in the class, which is why he tops several independent 2026 NHL Draft rankings.
Keaton Verhoeff: The Defensive Cornerstone
At 6’4” and over 200 pounds, Verhoeff moves like a much smaller player. His skating, physicality, and ability to shut down top lines while contributing offensively make him the clear top defenseman. Some scouts believe he’s the safest pick in the entire draft—a future top-pairing minute-eater who can change games in all three zones.
Chase Reid and Tynan Lawrence: High-Octane Offense
Reid brings electric speed and skill from the USNTDP, while Lawrence has been a point-per-game center as a freshman at Boston University. Both project as dynamic top-six NHL forwards with star potential.
The Next Tier: Depth That Makes This Class Special
Names like Carson Carels (pure goal-scorer), Caleb Malhotra (two-way center with edge), and Alberts Smits (big, mobile left-shot D) round out a first round that could see 10-12 players with legitimate top-line/pairing upside.
Risers, Fallers, and Sleepers in Recent 2026 NHL Draft Rankings
Since the start of the season, Stenberg and Verhoeff have been the biggest risers. On the flip side, some early-season favorites like certain OHL forwards have cooled off and dropped into the late first or early second.
Keep an eye on European sleepers—players like Viktor Klingsell and Anton Frondell could climb boards with strong second-half performances and U20 showings.
How Recent Events Could Reshape the Top of the Board
The charges against Gavin McKenna are the biggest story in the 2026 NHL Draft rankings right now. While nothing is resolved and everyone deserves due process, NHL teams are notoriously cautious with character concerns at the very top. We’ve seen prospects slide significantly in similar situations. If McKenna’s stock dips, it opens the door wider for Stenberg, Verhoeff, or even Reid to hear their name called first.
Conclusion: A Wide-Open Race to No. 1
The 2026 NHL Draft rankings are fluid, exciting, and full of star potential. Whether it’s McKenna’s elite creativity, Stenberg’s pro-ready game, or Verhoeff’s defensive dominance, there are multiple paths to a franchise-altering selection. Add in recent off-ice developments and the next few months will be must-watch drama. Whichever direction teams go, this class has the makings of several future All-Stars and cornerstone players. Stay tuned—the board is going to shift again before June.
FAQs About 2026 NHL Draft Rankings
1. Who is ranked No. 1 in the latest 2026 NHL Draft rankings?
It depends on the source. NHL Central Scouting has Gavin McKenna atop North American skaters, but several independent lists (Elite Prospects, Daily Faceoff) now favor Swedish forward Ivar Stenberg.
2. How have recent charges against Gavin McKenna affected 2026 NHL Draft rankings?
The allegations are very new (reported February 5, 2026), so current published rankings predate them. However, character concerns could cause McKenna to slide when teams finalize internal boards.
3. Which defenseman is highest in most 2026 NHL Draft rankings?
Keaton Verhoeff is the consensus top blueliner, appearing in the top three across virtually every major list thanks to his size, skating, and two-way impact.
4. Are there strong international prospects in the 2026 NHL Draft rankings?
Yes—Ivar Stenberg leads the way and is now the overall favorite on several boards. Other Europeans like Viktor Klingsell and Anton Frondell are projected first-rounders.
5. Where can I find the most up-to-date 2026 NHL Draft rankings?
The official NHL Central Scouting list is on NHL.com, while independent sites like Elite Prospects, Daily Faceoff, and Tankathon update frequently throughout the season.
