NHL Draft Rankings: NCAA’s Gavin McKenna Drops to Third
The race for the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft is heating up as December approaches. Gavin McKenna, previously the consensus No. 1 prospect, has dropped to third in recent rankings. This shift opens the competition and highlights emerging talents.
NHL Draft Rankings: NCAA’s Gavin McKenna Drops to Third
The 2026 NHL Draft class is gaining significant attention. Several players are vying for the top spot, showcasing an impressive pool of talent. Below are the top ten prospects as the holiday season nears.
Top 10 NHL Draft Prospects
- Ivar Stenberg (Frolunda, Sweden) – Left Wing
- Tynan Lawrence (Muskegon, USHL) – Center
- Gavin McKenna (Penn State, NCAA) – Left Wing
- Keaton Verhoeff (North Dakota, NCAA) – Defenseman
- Mathis Preston (Spokane, WHL) – Right Wing
- Ethan Belchetz (Windsor, OHL) – Left Wing
- Viggo Bjorck (Djurgarden, Sweden) – Center
- Alberts Smits (Jukurit, Finland) – Defenseman
- Chase Reid (Sault Ste. Marie, OHL) – Defenseman
- Xavier Villeneuve (Blainville-Boisbriand, QMJHL) – Defenseman
In-Depth Look at the Top Three Prospects
- Ivar Stenberg: At 5-foot-11 and 183 pounds, he combines intelligence and swift skating, aiming to set new records in Swedish professional hockey.
- Tynan Lawrence: Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 185 pounds, Lawrence returns from injuries, showcasing remarkable speed and a powerful shot.
- Gavin McKenna: Originally a top-ranked prospect, McKenna measures 5-foot-11 and weighs 170 pounds. His shift to NCAA hockey presents tougher competition.
Rising Stars in the Draft
Other notable players making waves include Keaton Verhoeff and Mathis Preston. Verhoeff stands out with his size—6-foot-3 and 208 pounds—and adept puck-handling skills. Preston, at 5-foot-11 and 177 pounds, is known for his relentless scoring potential.
As interest in these young athletes continues to grow, fans and scouts alike will monitor their performances closely leading up to the 2026 NHL Draft. This year’s depth of talent offers an exciting outlook for the future of hockey.
