The 2026 NHL Draft concluded with several unexpected selections, particularly in the later rounds. While many prospects were covered in pre-draft guides, 16 players, primarily late-round picks, garnered additional scrutiny after the event. These players, who were not extensively profiled beforehand, have since had their game tapes reviewed and reports compiled.
Among the notable selections is Connor Davis, a right wing chosen by the Vancouver Canucks at pick No. 129. After an impressive prep campaign, Davis transitioned to the USHL, where he became a significant even-strength scorer, finishing seventh in the league in even-strength points per game. He has committed to the University of North Dakota. Davis is recognized for his relentless motor, constant motion, and physical play, often initiating hits on both the forecheck and backcheck. While he creates loose pucks and shows creative ideas, his playmaking is still developing, with most of his offence stemming from capitalizing on loose pucks around the slot. He is expected to begin in a checking role at North Dakota, with potential for rapid advancement.
Later Round Selections Highlight Potential
Another intriguing pick is Tyler Deakos, a right wing selected by the Montreal Canadiens as the final pick of the draft. Deakos, who was not highly rated in his original draft year of 2024-25 while playing AEHL U18, saw a significant improvement in his game. After a strong start with the Drumheller Dragons, he moved to the USHL, where he was productive before his season was cut short by an injury in late January. Deakos is noted for his NHL-calibre shot, ability to get open in the slot, and powerful, precise one-timers and wristers. He also demonstrates skilled puck handling and physicality. While his playmaking is not a primary strength, his checking skills, defensive pace, and intensity are seen as crucial for his development. He is signed with the Penticton Vees for the 2026-27 season and could become an effective scorer in the WHL.
Parker Von Richter, a right defence chosen 111th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins, was a third-time eligible prospect. He was previously ranked as a prospect in 2024 and 2025. This season, he was among the top OHL defenders in minutes played, often in challenging, high-event situations. Von Richter is a defensive player known for disrupting opposing cycles with physicality, precision, and quick reactions. His rush defence is a strength, as he effectively closes space and delivers significant hits. While not a primary offensive creator, he has improved his puck possession, supporting play through frequent activation and quick reads. He is committed to New Hampshire for the upcoming season, where he is expected to secure a top role quickly.
The Seattle Kraken selected Finn Kearns, a left defence, at pick No. 131. Kearns is valued for his rare combination of mobility and physicality, making him a punishing player who actively seeks opportunities to hit opponents. His best shifts involve perfectly timed hits, winning possession, and facilitating clean exits to teammates. Improving his pace and urgency could elevate his game, potentially leading to a depth shutdown role. Kearns will return to Sudbury for another season before heading to UMass in 2027-2028.
Mikhail Cherepanov, a left defence from the New Hampshire Mountain Kings, was a rare pick directly from the NAHL by the Dallas Stars. Cherepanov is described as having a high-octane, creative, and physical style, characterized by non-stop activation and impressive sequences. One game report highlighted his instrumental third-period points, including an assist on a tying goal where he showcased puck handling and a precise pass, followed by a breakaway goal. Despite his raw talent, his game is noted for being chaotic and unstructured, with tendencies to overextend and overcommit defensively. He struggles with puck receptions and often misses plays. Cherepanov is committed to Lake Superior State for 2027-28, and is likely to require another year or two of junior hockey.
First and Second Round Highlights
In the first round, Viggo Bjorck was selected eighth overall by the Winnipeg Jets. Bjorck is described as a dynamic personality and a sturdy, strong forward who plays quickly. He provides offence and strong off-puck defensive details, making him suitable for all situations. He played professionally for Djurgardens in the SHL this year. In the same round, the Seattle Kraken picked Chase Reid seventh overall. Reid’s journey included being cut from USHL Waterloo and moving to NAHL Bismarck before a successful stint with Sault Ste. Marie in the OHL, where he recorded 40 points in 39 games. He later ran the power play for Team USA at the 2026 World Juniors and is noted for his elite passing, strong shot, and skating prowess.
The second round saw Matias Vanhanen go to the New Jersey Devils at 37th overall. Vanhanen is a skilled playmaker with elite vision and a combination of passing and shooting abilities. He also possesses reliable off-puck defensive details and competitiveness. He played for Everett in the WHL, contributing in both regular season and playoff games, including the Memorial Cup. The Pittsburgh Penguins selected Tomas Galvas 54th overall. At 20 years old, Galvas was eligible for the draft for the third time. He recorded eight goals and 24 points in 32 Extraliiga games and performed well at the 2026 World Juniors as a third-time member of Czechia’s team, playing nearly 21 minutes per game on the second pairing and tying for the team lead with a plus-7 rating. He also played for Czechia at the men’s worlds, averaging 14:00 per game and recording one assist in eight games.
Cullen McCrate, a right defence, was a seventh-round selection by the Boston Bruins after a breakout season with the Fargo Force. Two years prior, he was a depth defenceman for Dubuque before a trade to Fargo increased his minutes. This season, he became a top-pair, all-around force, often playing half the game. McCrate is described as a game manager who minimizes risk and facilitates play up the ice. He is a fluid skater and a steady presence.
Third and Fourth Round Notables
In the third round, the Utah Mammoth selected Adam Valentini 96th overall. Valentini, listed at 5-foot-9 and 183 pounds, is a versatile player capable of playing both wing and centre. As a true freshman at the University of Michigan, he contributed in games and accumulated penalty minutes, indicating his involved and physical style of play. He is seen as a potential middle-six or secondary scorer for the Mammoth. The Colorado Avalanche picked Beckett Hamilton 74th overall. Hamilton, a self-proclaimed late bloomer, showed steady improvement during his time in Red Deer. His 2024-25 season was his first full season in the WHL, where he scored 14 goals and 25 points. A move to centre in the past season resulted in a 24-goal, 62-point season, helping the Rebels secure a playoff spot. Hamilton identifies as a hard worker with strong defensive awareness, aiming to be a solid checker and a responsible middle-of-the-lineup player.
The fourth round saw Thomas Vandenberg selected 103rd overall by the Los Angeles Kings. Vandenberg, a centre, was one of the youngest players in this draft class, born on September 8, 2008. He is known for his fast play, versatility, and relentless competitiveness. He played for the Ottawa 67’s this year and also represented Team Canada at the U18 World Championship, where he demonstrated his flexibility in an energy and checking role. He is projected as a third-line forward with the hockey sense to play either centre or wing, and is headed to Providence College.
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Source: eliteprospects.com
