The 2026 NHL Draft showcased a notable presence of diversity, with at least 12 players of Black, Indigenous, Asian, South Asian, Hispanic, and Samoan heritage being selected. The event took place at KeyBank Center in Buffalo over Friday and Saturday.
Among the draftees, several players who were not initially highlighted in pre-draft guides received attention for their potential contributions to their respective teams. These selections, often in later rounds, demonstrated various skill sets and development trajectories.
Noteworthy Selections and Scouting Reports
Connor Davis, a right wing from the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders, was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks. After an impressive prep campaign, Davis transitioned to the USHL, where he became one of the league’s top even-strength scorers, ranking seventh in even-strength points per game. Known for his relentless motor, quick passing, and physicality, Davis consistently pressures opponents on both the forecheck and backcheck. While he excels at creating loose pucks and capitalizing around the slot, his playmaking is still developing. Davis is committed to the University of North Dakota and is projected to start in a checking role, with potential for rapid advancement due to his physical development room.
The Montreal Canadiens selected Tyler Deakos, a right wing from the Waterloo Black Hawks, as the final pick of the draft. Deakos’s journey is particularly interesting, as he was not a standout in his original draft year in 2024-25 while playing AEHL U18. However, a strong start with the Drumheller Dragons and a productive, though injury-shortened, stint in the USHL highlighted his potential. Deakos is noted for his NHL-calibre shot, ability to get open in the slot, and skilled puck handling. While his playmaking needs improvement, his checking skills and physicality are key to his future development. He is signed with the Penticton Vees for the 2026-27 season and could become an effective scorer in the WHL, potentially offering organizational depth.
Parker Von Richter, a right defence from the Barrie Colts, was picked 111th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins. This marks his third time being considered in the draft process, having been ranked in previous years. Von Richter played significant minutes in the OHL, often in challenging situations. He is recognized as a play-killing defender with strong rush defence, physicality, and precise reactions. Although not a primary creator, he has shown improvement in possession and offensive facilitation, supporting play through activation and quick-possession reads. His commitment to New Hampshire next season suggests he could quickly secure a top role, aiming to fill a depth position at the NHL level.
Defensive Prospects and Unique Paths
The Seattle Kraken drafted Finn Kearns, a left defence from St. Andrew’s College, at pick 131. Kearns possesses a rare combination of mobility and physicality, making him a punishing player who frequently engages in hits and crosschecks. His ability to time big hits, win possession, and facilitate clean exits to teammates is a valuable asset. Improving his pace and urgency could elevate his game, potentially leading to a depth shutdown role in the NHL or a second-tier professional career. Kearns is slated to 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’s high-octane, creative, and physical style of play, characterized by non-stop activation, caught attention. One game report highlighted his instrumental three third-period points in a comeback victory, including an assist where he pulled the puck through his legs and a breakaway goal. Despite his raw talent, Cherepanov’s game shows areas for refinement, such as overextending on rushes and overcommitting defensively. He is committed to Lake Superior State for 2027-28 and likely needs additional junior hockey experience to refine his chaotic and unstructured play.
Cullen McCrate, a right defence from the Fargo Force, was a seventh-round selection by the Boston Bruins. McCrate’s breakout season followed a trade to Fargo, where he transitioned from a depth defenceman to a top-pair, all-around force, often playing half the game. He is described as a game manager who minimizes risk and facilitates play up the ice. McCrate is a fluid skater and a steady presence on the ice.
The 2026 NHL Draft saw a diverse group of players selected, reflecting various backgrounds and skill sets.
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Source: eliteprospects.com
As CasinoNews's Sports News Writer, Mason Leclair reports on the CFL, golf and combat sports for readers across the country. He moved from regional papers into digital sport. He holds a degree in Journalism from Carleton University. Mason lives in Ottawa, where he follows the PGA Tour and mixed martial arts. “Get the facts down first, then add the context.”
