NHL Draft 2026: Round One Recap

Big Talent from the Yukon

The 18-year-old from Whitehorse, Yukon, was one of the youngest players in college hockey this season. With 51 points (15 goals, 36 assists) in 35 games, he tied for fifth place NCAA-wide and ranked second with an average of 1.46 points per game.

The left-shot forward, who was ranked as the top North American skater in the final NHL Central Scouting rankings, set or tied nine university records. He was also the only player unanimously voted to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.

McKenna is only the fifth NCAA player ever to be drafted first overall. He is also only the second player from Canada's Yukon Territory, after Dylan Cozens, to be selected in the first round of an NHL Draft.

Stenberg Heads to San Jose

Ivar Stenberg was also projected as a No. 1 overall pick. Ultimately, the San Jose Sharks made their move at the second position, securing the rights to the Swedish winger.

The 18-year-old scored 33 points (11 goals, 22 assists) in 43 games last season for Frölunda HC in the Swedish SHL. This marked the fifth-best season by a player aged 18 or younger in league history. Stenberg is considered a complete two-way forward with strengths in both offense and defense.

Rangers Select Smits

Alberts Smits was also drafted, a player who already has experience in German hockey. The New York Rangers chose the 18-year-old Latvian with the fifth overall pick.

Last season, Smits played for both Jukurit Helsinki in the Finnish Liiga and EHC München in the DEL.

McTavish Trade Brings Ducks Two First-Round Picks

The trade of Mason McTavish also caused a stir. The Anaheim Ducks sent the 23-year-old forward to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for two first-round picks in the 2026 NHL Draft.

Last season, McTavish recorded 41 points (17 goals, 24 assists) in 75 games for Anaheim. In the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he added six more points (one goal, five assists) in ten appearances. His six-year contract still has five seasons remaining.