Draft Nation’s “Next Gen Stars” Big Board: Top 10 Prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft

The 2026 NHL Draft class is beginning to take shape as one of the more intriguing groups in recent memory. Across North America and Europe, scouts are spotting true difference-makers — explosive forwards, two-way defensemen, and even a standout goalie or two who could command attention early.

In this piece we present our Top 10 prospects for the 2026 Draft. These are players we believe have the highest ceilings, combining elite traits, production, and long-term projection. For each, you’ll get an extended breakdown of their game and who they resemble at the NHL level — giving you a sense of how they play and how they might impact a franchise.

Whether it’s a winger setting the world on fire with skating and shot, a defenseman who controls play at both ends, or a netminder with rare upside — this list spans all positions. Think of it as your first look at the next wave of NHL stars.

1. Gavin McKenna — LW, Penn State / WHL

Comparable: Connor Bedard with more physicality

McKenna is widely regarded as the front-runner for the No.1 spot. He skates with elite speed, sees the ice at a high level, and is a prolific producer — his WHL numbers were off the charts. What sets him apart is the complete toolkit: high-end shot, playmaker vision, and a competitive edge. His commitment to the NCAA (Penn State) shows he can adapt to different environments. If he maintains his trajectory, he projects as a franchise forward who can both score and create.

Strengths: elite wheels, shot + release, high hockey IQ.

Area to refine: play strength vs pro defenders, consistency at even strength.

2. Keaton Verhoeff — RD, University of North Dakota (NCAA) / International

Comparable: Cale Makar with more size

Verhoeff is emerging as the top defenseman in the class thanks to his 6′4″ frame, skating mobility, and two-way potential. Multiple early boards list him inside the top three. He transitions well with the puck, escapes pressure, and impacts both ends of the ice. As NHL teams prioritize mobile defensemen who can join the rush and defend efficiently, Verhoeff checks a lot of boxes.

Strengths: mobility, size, two-way game.

Area to refine: physicality in pro battles, consistency in defensive zone.

3. Ivar Stenberg — LW, Frölunda HC (SHL/Sweden)

Comparable: Mika Zibanejad with more burst

Stenberg has flown under the radar for some time but is now considered a top-tier forward. He posted big numbers in Swedish junior levels and already made pro appearances at a young age. His skillset: quick acceleration, excellent shot, high “compete” level. He may not yet have the same production as some peers, but his projection is higher than most.

Strengths: quickness, pro-league experience, shot repertoire.

Area to refine: strength vs older pro defensemen, consistency in big games.

4. Daxon Rudolph — RD, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)

Comparable: Aaron Ekblad with more offensive upside

Rudolph has shown impressive two-way results for a teenager in the WHL. His offensive numbers are strong for a defenseman, and he displays composure that scouts love. He skates well for his size, moves pucks cleanly, and defends actively. With further physical maturation, he projects as a top-pairing D men.

Strengths: puck mobility, offensive instincts, poise.

Area to refine: physical engagement, tightening defensive reads.

5. Ryan Roobroeck — LW, Niagara IceDogs (OHL)

Comparable: Jamie Benn with better footwork

Roobroeck is a big winger (6′4″) with scoring touch and long-term upside. His rookie numbers in the OHL were standout. He uses his size smartly — protects the puck, drives to the net, and has good reach. His skating and finishing are trending upward.

Strengths: size, net drive, finishing ability.

Area to refine: lateral mobility, consistency in setting up teammates.

6. Malte Gustafsson — LD, HV 71 Jr / Sweden Jr

Comparable: Victor Hedman with more extension

Gustafsson brings the rare combination of size (6′4″+), mobility, and puck skill. Early international and junior showings indicate he has the physical and technical profile of an impact defenseman. His ability to jump into play, activate offensively, and defend gives him serious upside.

Strengths: size + skating, two-way mobility.

Area to refine: top-pair defensive consistency, strength vs pro forecheckers.

7. Tynan Lawrence — LW, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)

Comparable: Connor McDavid with more scoring-line tenacity

Lawrence is young for this class, but his USHL output and trajectory make him a fast riser. He has elite acceleration, great puck control, and a confidence in his offensive game that stands out. While he may need another year of seasoning, his ceiling is elite.

Strengths: explosiveness, puck skill, offensive creativity.

Area to refine: strength, defensive zone play, physical resilience.

8. Viggo Björck — RW, Djurgårdens IF Jr / Sweden Jr

Comparable: Patrik Laine with an improved two-way game

Björck is a European winger with an excellent shot, strong skating, and potential for big-time goal scoring. His size and skill combination make him interesting, and he’s attracting early attention.

Strengths: shot, goal scoring, winger size.

Area to refine: distribution, stronger NHL-level competition play, defensive game.

9. Axel Bröngel-Larsson — D, Frölunda HC U20 / Sweden Jr

Comparable: Rasmus Dahlin with more physicality

Bröngel-Larsson is a tall defenseman (6′1″-6′2″ plus) who controls the ice with movement and reach. He’s showing the tools to be a difference-maker. His mobility and anticipation are already advanced for his age; he can defend and create.

Strengths: mobility, intelligence, defensive upside.

Area to refine: offensive consistency, strength battles.

10. Chad Lygitsakos — F, Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL)

Comparable: Jonathan Huberdeau with better speed

Lygitsakos brings an excellent offensive instinct, high-end skating, and emerging production in the QMJHL. He may not yet have the standout size of some peers, but his creativity, puck vision and skating make him a compelling top-10 candidate.

Strengths: skating, creativity, offensive IQ.

Area to refine: strength, physical play, consistency in higher leagues.