Luke Wilfley goes 172nd
With the 172nd overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, the Devils selected Luke Wilfley, a forward from the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League.
Wilfley brings size, pace, and competitiveness to the Devils’ prospect pool. A Colorado native who played his draft season in Portland, Wilfley built his profile around a hard-working, direct style and the ability to impact the game with his skating, forecheck pressure, and physical engagement.
That physical identity is something Wilfley embraces.
“I think I have a bigger frame, and so it definitely gets me into the game, playing physically and getting in their faces,” Wilfley said. “If I have any opportunity to take an opponent off their game by using my game to my advantage, then I’m going to try to do that.”
In his first full WHL season with the Winterhawks, Wilfley appeared in 66 games, recording nine goals and 15 points while also playing with an edge. His production does not fully define his game, as much of his value comes from his ability to pressure opponents, finish checks, force turnovers, and bring energy to his line.
Wilfley said his time in Portland helped reinforce the patience and daily commitment needed to keep improving.
“It’s a long road,” Wilfley said. “You have to trust the process, and you have to earn everything.”
Wilfley’s game is built around pace and compete. He is at his best when he is moving his feet, getting in on the forecheck, and making life difficult for opposing defensemen. He has shown the ability to play a give-and-go style, attack off the rush, and use his frame to win pucks and extend plays.
When asked about an NHL player he models his game after, Wilfley pointed to Brady Tkachuk.
“I think he has the tendency to be in guys’ faces, play physical,” Wilfley said. “He also knows how to score goals, and I’m still obviously not there yet and still working to get there.”