The October edition of Sportsnet’s 2026 NHL Draft rankings highlights Gavin McKenna from Penn State as the top prospect, showcasing his impressive stats from the WHL. McKenna’s notable 79 goals and 244 points in 133 games position him as a franchise player. The rankings also reflect a shift in prospect pathways with CHL players now eligible for NCAA, leading to a competitive balance in draft talent from various leagues. A projected strong first round heavily favors CHL players, with Swedish prospects making an impact as well.
By the NumbersGavin McKenna scored 79 goals and recorded 244 points in 133 games.21 CHL-trained players were picked in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft. State of PlayMcKenna is the leading prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft, showing exceptional offensive skills.Junior leagues such as the WHL and OHL are expected to dominate the upcoming draft class.The NCAA now attracts CHL players, creating a competitive landscape for college hockey talent. What’s Next
The NHL Central Scouting “Watch List” is set to release around October 20, amplifying anticipation for the upcoming draft class. As players adapt to the changing landscape, their performances in various leagues will be closely monitored, impacting future rankings.
Bottom Line
The evolving dynamics of hockey prospects emphasize the importance of versatility and adaptability in a player’s development pathway. McKenna’s status as a leading prospect underscores the increasingly competitive nature of the draft landscape, suggesting that scouts will need to pay close attention to non-traditional routes players are taking to the NHL.