DRAFT PROSPECTS HOCKEY

Tag: DraftPro

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    As playoff races near their conclusion across North America and international play ramps up ahead of the World Championship, draft-eligible prospects continue to deliver defining performances. With championships within reach and national team opportunities on the line, this stage of the season offers a clear look at which players can elevate their game in high-pressure moments.

    This week’s three stars feature a Western Hockey League defenseman leading the postseason in scoring while driving his team toward a title, an Ontario Hockey League center continuing to anchor one of the league’s top contenders, and a Swedish winger transitioning seamlessly from junior and professional success to the international stage.

    Daxon Rudolph | RHD | Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)

    Prince Albert Raiders defenseman Daxon Rudolph is putting together a dominant postseason. The 12th-ranked skater on Draft Prospects Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings leads the WHL in playoff scoring with 23 points (nine goals, 14 assists) in 15 games, continuing to assert himself as one of the top offensive threats in the draft class.

    The Lacombe, Alberta native has built on a strong regular season in which he led all draft-eligible WHL defensemen in scoring, serving as a primary driver for Prince Albert’s push toward a championship.

    Rudolph opened the scoring in Game 3 of the WHL Eastern Conference Final against the Medicine Hat Tigers. After collecting the puck off an offensive zone draw, he worked his way into the slot, flipped a backhand on goal, and followed up to tip in the rebound. He finished with a game-high eight shots on goal in a 2-1 overtime loss.

    He delivered his most productive outing of the postseason in Game 4, setting a new career high for points in a playoff game. Rudolph struck on the power play from the point midway through the first period, then added another goal early in the second, slipping into the offensive zone and wiring a wrist shot over the glove. He later recorded two assists in the same frame as the Raiders built a 5-2 lead.

    Rudolph added an assist in Game 5 before closing the series with another impactful performance. He recorded a secondary power-play assist on a goal by Vancouver Canucks prospect Braeden Cootes, then created the go-ahead tally by cutting off a clearing attempt and directing the puck toward the net, where it took a fortunate bounce past the goaltender. He added another assist to help secure the series win.

    Caleb Malhotra | C | Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)

    Caleb Malhotra has continued to build on an outstanding rookie season, reinforcing his position as one of the top centers in the 2026 NHL Draft class. The Brantford Bulldogs forward finished the regular season with 84 points (29 goals, 55 assists), trailing only Seattle Kraken first-round pick Jake O’Brien in team scoring.

    The Toronto native has elevated his play in the postseason, sitting second in OHL playoff scoring with 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists). His ability to consistently generate offense has been a key factor in Brantford’s deep playoff run.

    Malhotra recorded three assists in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Barrie Colts before adding a power-play goal in the third period to cap a 6-1 victory.

    He opened the scoring in Game 5 with an individual effort, taking a breakout pass into the offensive zone and beating the goaltender with a slapshot through the five-hole. Later in the game, he responded to a Colts goal by driving the net and converting a rebound off a shot from Montreal Canadiens prospect Owen Protz. Despite his efforts, Brantford fell in overtime.

    In Game 6, Malhotra helped set the tone early once again. He intercepted a clearing attempt and quickly moved the puck to the front of the net, where draft-eligible Cooper Dennis converted. That stood as his lone point in a tightly contested game that extended to four periods, with Barrie ultimately securing the win.

    Ivar Stenberg | RW/LW | Sweden

    Ivar Stenberg continues to strengthen his case as one of the premier prospects in the 2026 NHL Draft class. The Stenungsund native enjoyed an outstanding SHL season, recording 33 points (11 goals, 22 assists) in 43 games — the fifth-highest total by an 18-year-old in league history, behind Daniel Sedin, Markus Näslund, Tomas Sandström, and Henrik Sedin.

    Stenberg also played a significant role in Sweden’s gold medal run at the World Junior Championship, finishing tied for fifth in tournament scoring.

    The second-ranked skater on Draft Prospects Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings transitioned to the international stage once again following his club season. After recording four assists in six playoff games, he joined Sweden’s pre-tournament roster for the World Championship and suited up for three Euro Hockey Tour games in Czechia.

    He made an immediate impact in his first appearance against Switzerland, recording his first senior international point by setting up fellow draft-eligible Viggo Björck on a play from the offensive zone. He added another assist by moving the puck back to the point before scoring a power-play goal late in the third, stepping in and placing a precise wrist shot past the goaltender.

    Stenberg followed that performance by opening the scoring against Czechia, beating the goaltender cleanly with a wrist shot from the offensive zone. He added a secondary assist later in the game, continuing to drive play.

    He was held off the scoresheet in the final game against Finland but remained an active presence throughout the contest.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars: U18 World Championship Edition

    While many prospects continue their playoff pushes at the club level, a significant portion of the 2026 draft class has taken center stage internationally at the IIHF U18 World Championship in Slovakia. The tournament provides one final opportunity for players to measure themselves against their peers and make a lasting impression ahead of the NHL Draft.

    This week’s three stars feature a Swedish winger leading the charge offensively for his country, a Canadian center continuing to find his game after an up-and-down season, and a Swedish pivot beginning to deliver on his first-round projection.

    Here are the draft-eligible three stars for the week of April 20 to 27.

    Elton Hermansson | RW/LW | Sweden U18

    Swedish winger Elton Hermansson continues to excel against his age group, building on a strong international season in which he recorded 19 points (10 goals, nine assists) in 10 games. The 6-foot-1, 174-pound forward has carried that momentum into the U18 World Championship, where he has been a consistent offensive driver for Sweden.

    The Örnsköldsvik native spent much of his draft year playing in HockeyAllsvenskan with Modo, where he led all draft-eligible players in both points (21) and games played (38). He saw limited action during the playoffs before Modo was eliminated in the semifinals.

    Hermansson opened the tournament with an assist and four shots on goal in a 7-2 win over Germany. He followed that up with another four-shot performance in a 2-1 loss to Czechia and again led Sweden with four shots in a 9-1 defeat against the United States.

    He broke through in a big way in Sweden’s final group stage game against Denmark. Hermansson opened the scoring just 32 seconds into the contest and later added a secondary assist in the first period. He took over in the third, scoring Sweden’s seventh goal before adding three assists as the team closed out the round-robin with a 10-1 victory.

    Tynan Lawrence | C | Canada U18

    Tynan Lawrence’s draft year has been marked by adversity, beginning with an injury in the USHL preseason that delayed his debut. Despite that, the Fredericton, New Brunswick native produced 17 points in 13 games with the Muskegon Lumberjacks, serving as team captain and reinforcing his standing as one of the top centers in the 2026 class behind Caleb Malhotra.

    The 2025 USHL playoff MVP transitioned to Boston University in January, stepping into the NCAA midseason. While offense was slow to come initially — he recorded his first point in his sixth game — Lawrence gradually found his footing, finishing with seven points in 18 games. Head coach Jay Pandolfo noted his strong play down the stretch, identifying him as the team’s best forward over its final games.

    At the U18 World Championship, Lawrence has continued to contribute in key moments. He picked up an assist on Canada’s lone goal in its opening loss to Slovakia. He followed that with a goal against Latvia, retrieving a puck along the boards before driving play and sending a pass to the front that deflected through the goaltender.

    His most impactful performance came in a dominant win over Norway. On the power play, Lawrence found space in the slot and wired home a one-timer to extend the lead. He added two assists in the second period as Canada rolled to an 8-0 victory.

    Alexander Command | C | Sweden U18

    Alexander Command entered the tournament following a highly productive season at the junior level, leading all draft-eligible players in Sweden’s U20 Nationell with 44 points (17 goals, 27 assists) in 30 games. He added 13 points (five goals, eight assists) in 14 playoff contests and contributed 12 points (six goals, six assists) in 13 international games. The Danderyd native also gained pro experience, appearing in six SHL games with Örebro HK.

    The 16th-ranked skater on Draft Prospects Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings had a quieter start to the U18 tournament, recording one assist and four shots on goal in the opener against Germany. He followed that with another four-shot effort in Game 2 but was held off the scoresheet and added a lone assist in Sweden’s loss to the United States.

    A late adjustment to Sweden’s forward lines proved to be a turning point. Slotted alongside Hermansson and Marcus Nordmark on the top unit, Command broke through in the final group stage game against Denmark.

    He recorded an assist on the opening goal just 32 seconds into the contest, scored later in the first period, and added another goal in the third to secure his first multi-point performance of the tournament.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    As postseason races reach their defining stages across the hockey world, draft-eligible prospects continue to be tested in high-leverage situations. With fewer games and heightened intensity, the ability to respond after adversity and deliver in key moments remains a crucial separator as the 2026 NHL Draft approaches.

    This week’s three stars feature a high-scoring Western Hockey League winger breaking out at a critical time, a dynamic two-way defenseman closing out an impressive season with a strong playoff showing, and a Swedish center capping off a dominant postseason run with a championship performance.

    Here are the 2026 draft-eligible three stars for the week of April 13 to 20.

    Liam Ruck | RW | Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)

    Liam Ruck, alongside his identical twin Markus, formed one of the most productive duos in Canadian major junior hockey this season. While Markus led the CHL in scoring with 108 points, Liam followed closely behind with 104 points (45 goals, 59 assists) in 68 games, establishing himself as one of the premier offensive threats in the 2026 draft class.

    The Osoyoos, British Columbia native had a quieter start to the postseason, recording three points in a first-round sweep of the Regina Pats. He carried that lull into the opening two games of the second-round series against the Calgary Hitmen, where he was held off the scoresheet.

    Ruck broke through in a major way in Game 3. He opened the scoring by finding space in the slot and capitalizing on a rebound with a quick wrist shot over the blocker. The 2026 WHL Eastern Conference First All-Star followed that up with a shorthanded goal in the second period, creating the chance himself by disrupting a pass at the point before winning a race to the puck and finishing from the left circle to tie the game.

    He remained a driving force throughout the contest, adding an assist on a backdoor setup to his brother Markus before sealing the performance with an empty-net goal. Ruck continued to contribute in Game 4, recording a secondary power-play assist as Medicine Hat secured its place in the WHL Final for the second consecutive season.

    Carson Carels | LHD | Prince George Cougars (WHL)

    Carson Carels capped off a strong draft season with a productive playoff run, despite Prince George’s second-round elimination. The third-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings finished fourth among WHL defensemen in regular-season scoring with 73 points (20 goals, 52 assists) in 58 games, showcasing his ability to impact the game in all situations.

    The 17-year-old defender carried that form into the postseason, recording 10 points (one goal, nine assists) in 10 games. In Game 3 against the Penticton Vees, Carels picked up two assists, helping the Cougars build an early lead and later contributing to a key response goal as momentum shifted.

    He added another assist in Game 4, jumping on a loose puck in the neutral zone before leading the rush and setting up a teammate with a well-timed pass for a go-ahead goal.

    After being held off the scoresheet in Game 5, Carels delivered his most impactful performance in the series finale. Activating off the rush, he weaved through defenders before snapping a wrist shot past the goaltender to open the scoring. Later, on the power play, he held the line and set up a one-timer that doubled the lead. Despite his efforts, the Cougars were unable to hold off a late push, ultimately falling in overtime.

    Viggo Björck | C | Djurgården U20 (U20 Nationell)

    Viggo Björck put a definitive stamp on his draft year with a dominant postseason performance, reinforcing his position among the top prospects in the 2026 class. After spending much of the season competing in the SHL and capturing gold at the World Junior Championship, the Stockholm native returned to the U20 level and played a leading role in Djurgården’s championship run.

    The 11th-ranked skater on Draft Prospects Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings was highly productive throughout the playoffs, recording 15 points (seven goals, eight assists) in his first six games. He remained a key contributor in the final series, adding five points in three games while consistently generating offense.

    Despite being limited to one assist through the first two games of the final, Björck continued to drive play, registering 10 shots on goal across two tightly contested wins. He saved his best performance for the decisive game.

    Björck scored on the power play late in the first period, stepping into space and wiring a wrist shot past the goaltender to extend the lead to 3-0. He took control in the second period, adding three assists as Djurgården pulled away to secure the title.

    His ability to elevate in critical moments and consistently produce in high-pressure environments caps off an impressive draft season and further solidifies his standing as one of the top international prospects available.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    Playoff races across the hockey world continued to intensify this week, offering draft-eligible prospects another opportunity to separate themselves through timely production and impactful performances. With each round raising the stakes, consistency and the ability to deliver in key moments remain critical factors in shaping the 2026 NHL Draft landscape.

    This week’s three stars feature a top OHL center continuing to drive one of the league’s most dangerous contenders, a high-scoring WHL defenseman leading from the back end, and a Slovakian pivot finding ways to contribute as his club pushes deeper into the postseason.

    Here are the draft-eligible three stars for the week of April 6 to April 13.

    Caleb Malhotra | C | Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)

    Brantford Bulldogs center Caleb Malhotra continues to be a driving force behind one of the OHL’s top contenders. The Toronto native sits fifth in playoff scoring with 13 points (eight goals, five assists), making him the only draft-eligible player among the league’s top five scorers this postseason. A finalist for the OHL Rookie of the Year award after posting 84 points (29 goals, 55 assists) in the regular season, Malhotra continues to solidify his standing as one of the premier centers in the 2026 draft class.

    The fourth-ranked skater on Draft Prospects Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings remained productive as Brantford opened its second-round series against the North Bay Battalion. He wasted little time making an impact in Game 1, scoring a power-play goal just over two minutes into the contest by capitalizing on a rebound. Later in the period, he added a primary assist, feathering a pass to Cooper Dennis for a clean finish, before striking again by intercepting a clearing attempt and wiring the puck into the back of the net.

    Malhotra stayed active in Game 2, delivering another timely play late in the opening period. With under 10 seconds remaining, he forced a turnover on the forecheck and flipped a backhand on goal that found its way through the goaltender to beat the buzzer.

    While he was held off the scoresheet in Game 3, Malhotra continued to play a key role in a tightly contested matchup. He logged significant minutes, including extended ice time in double overtime, as the Bulldogs rallied to tie the game late before eventually securing a 3-0 series lead.

    Daxon Rudolph | RHD | Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)

    Daxon Rudolph’s emergence as one of the top offensive defensemen in the 2026 class has continued into the postseason. The Lacombe, Alberta native leads all WHL blueliners in playoff scoring with 11 points (four goals, seven assists) through seven games, building on a dominant regular season in which he paced draft-eligible CHL defensemen in production.

    The 6-foot-2, 203-pound defender played a central role in Prince Albert’s strong start to its series against the Saskatoon Blades. In Game 1, Rudolph extended his team’s lead early, stepping in from the point and beating the goaltender with a well-placed wrist shot. He added a second-period assist with a precise stretch pass that sprung Brandon Gorzynski for a clean finish before picking up another helper on the power play in a 6-1 victory.

    Rudolph followed that performance with another impactful showing in Game 2. Activating off the rush to create a numerical advantage, he directed a shot toward the net that resulted in a rebound goal, helping the Raiders secure a 3-0 win and take early control of the series.

    Tomas Chrenko | C | HK Nitra (Slovakia)

    Tomas Chrenko has continued to build on an impressive draft year that has included strong international and professional experience. The Slovakian center recorded eight points (five goals, three assists) in five games at the 2026 World Junior Championship, showcasing his ability to produce against top competition. He also contributed 31 points (nine goals, 22 assists) in 44 games in Slovakia’s top professional league during the regular season.

    Skating for his hometown club HK Nitra in the postseason, Chrenko has found ways to contribute despite limited ice time. After recording four assists in a seven-game second-round series win, he began to make a greater impact in the semifinals against Poprad.

    In Game 3, Chrenko helped open the scoring by creating a two-on-one opportunity, recovering a loose puck and setting up a teammate for a clean finish. He followed that up with a key contribution in a comeback effort, driving play off the forecheck before feeding a teammate for a one-timer that gave Nitra the lead in an eventual 5-4 victory.

    Chrenko remained involved in Game 5, helping his team respond after an early deficit. Carrying the puck into the offensive zone, he evaded pressure and waited for support before setting up a teammate at the doorstep to tie the game. Nitra went on to rally for a 4-2 win, continuing its push deeper into the postseason.

    Chrenko’s ability to contribute in different situations and against older competition continues to underline his value as an intriguing option in the 2026 draft.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    The playoffs for prospects across the hockey world are now underway, marking a critical stretch where players can separate themselves from the rest of the draft class with standout performances in high-pressure games. This week’s draft-eligible three stars feature a Swedish center on fire in his junior club’s postseason after his pro season ended; a Western Hockey League (WHL) defender who piled up goals in the regular season and continues to do so in the playoffs; and a dynamic Ontario Hockey League (OHL) center who continues to drive one of the most dangerous teams in Canadian major junior hockey.

    Here are the draft-eligible three stars for the week of March 23 to 30.

    Viggo Björck | C | Djurgårdens IF (SHL)

    Swedish center Viggo Björck wrapped up his first full professional season with respectable totals for an 18-year-old with a March birthday. While his stat line — 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in 42 SHL games — doesn’t jump off the page, the Stockholm native was a force at the World Junior Championships, recording nine points (three goals, six assists) for the gold medal-winning squad. Björck also earned increased ice time as the season progressed and was playing a top-line role by the playoffs.

    Despite producing at a point-per-game pace in Djurgårdens’ three-game first-round series against Malmö, Björck and his team were eliminated. That allowed the eighth-ranked skater on the Draft Prospects Hockey 2026 NHL Draft Rankings to join the club’s U20 team, which remained in the playoff hunt. The 5-foot-10 center made an immediate impact in the quarterfinals, helping the team advance to the semifinals.

    In Game 1, Björck recorded a power-play assist midway through the second period as Djurgårdens cruised to a 3-0 win. In Game 2, the IFK Täby product added a secondary assist on the opening goal before sealing a 4-1 victory with an empty-net tally. With a chance to clinch the series in Game 3, Björck delivered his best performance.

    The 2025 U-18 IIHF World Championship silver medalist opened the scoring just over three minutes into the game with a deft backhand finish. He added an assist in the second period as his team built a 3-1 lead, then capped off the win with a power-play one-timer into a nearly empty net. Despite appearing in just three games, Björck leads the league in postseason points per game.

    Daxon Rudolph | RHD | Prince Albert Raiders

    Daxon Rudolph’s calling card in his draft season has been his goal-scoring ability. The WHL sophomore led Canadian major junior defensemen eligible for the draft with 28 goals—eight more than Carson Carels of the Prince George Cougars. The 6-foot-2, 203-pound blueliner also added 50 assists, finishing second in CHL scoring among draft-eligible players behind Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats.

    The 10th-ranked skater on the Draft Prospects Hockey 2026 NHL Draft Rankings has carried that production into the postseason, facing the Red Deer Rebels in the opening round.

    In Game 1, Rudolph helped facilitate strong puck movement on the power play, earning a secondary assist on a goal by Vancouver Canucks prospect Braeden Cootes. Early in the second period, Rudolph jumped into the play, initially firing a shot for a potential tip before circling the net and burying the rebound into a nearly empty net. The goal stood as the game-winner in a 4-1 victory.

    Rudolph stayed hot in Game 2 as the Raiders defended home ice. After a scoreless first period, he helped spark the offense in the second, holding the line to keep a play alive before setting up Ben Harvey for a goal.

    Later in the period, while killing a penalty, Cootes intercepted a pass and spotted Rudolph streaking through the neutral zone. The defender took the pass in stride and wired a wrist shot over the goaltender’s glove. He later added another power-play assist, bringing his total to five points through two games.

    Caleb Malhotra | C | Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)

    Caleb Malhotra played a key role in helping the Brantford Bulldogs finish atop the OHL standings this season. He ranked second on the team in scoring behind Seattle Kraken prospect Jake O’Brien, posting 84 points (29 goals, 55 assists). That total also placed him second among draft-eligible OHL players, trailing only Saginaw Spirit forward Nikita Kelpov. The son of longtime NHLer and current AHL coach Manny Malhotra has firmly established himself as one of the top centers in the 2026 draft class.

    Malhotra has carried that momentum into the playoffs, recording four points through two games in the opening round.

    In Game 1, the former Chilliwack Chief extended his team’s lead to 3-0 in the second period, capitalizing on a rebound during a power play. He struck again later in the frame, picking off a clearing attempt and wiring a wrist shot from the left faceoff circle to make it 5-2. The Bulldogs went on to win 6-2.

    Malhotra remained a difference-maker in Game 2. On an early power play, Marek Vanacker recovered a broken play and found Malhotra alone at the backdoor for an easy tap-in to open the scoring. Later, with under five minutes remaining in the second period, Malhotra led the rush and threaded a pass across the zone to Cooper Dennis, who quickly set up a teammate in front to restore the lead. The Bulldogs added an empty-net goal late to secure a 2-0 series advantage.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    The postseason has arrived for some prospects, while the chase to the end of the regular season has just wrapped up for others. This week’s draft-eligible three-stars highlights a Swedish winger who flourished in his team’s first round of the playoffs, an Ontario Hockey League winger helping his squad in the final push, and a Swiss forward who hasn’t let injuries get in the way of a productive draft year.

    Marcus Nordmark | RW | Djurgårdens IF U20 (U20 Nationell)

    Swedish winger Marcus Nordmark is having a very productive draft year. The 16th-ranked skater on Draft Prospect Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings put up 38 points (14 goals, 24 assists) in 25 games to lead all draft-eligible players in his league with more than 10 games played in points per game with 1.52. He also got into eight SHL games, producing an assist.

    The 6-foot-2, 187-pound Stockholm native was instrumental in helping his squad advance to the quarterfinals of the playoffs. After falling in the first game of the five-game series, Nordmark registered a goal and two assists as his team drew back even in the series with a 4-3 win. The 17-year-old was all over the ice in game three, picking up two goals and two helpers in a 5-4 loss.

    Nordmark was held off the scoresheet in game four, but his team managed to secure a 3-0 win. In the series finale, the Swede showed off his playmaking prowess with a trio of assists as his squad triumphed 6-5 in overtime. His 11 points in five playoff games is tied for second in the league.

    Pierce Mbuyi | LW | Owen Sound Attack (OHL)

    Pierce Mbuyi was one of the most productive draft-eligible players in the OHL this season with 75 points (32 goals, 43 assists), finishing third behind Nikita Kleepov and Caleb Malhotra. The second-year forward was an offensive catalyst for the Attack, leading the team in scoring by 11 points.

    The Attack remained in a battle for playoff seeding up until the final regular season game, and Mbuyi played a big part in helping to secure the sixth spot in the OHL’s Western Conference. Opening the week on a March Break Wednesday, Mbuyi picked up an assist before scoring the game winner in the third period in a 4-3 win over the Flint Firebirds. The Attack fell behind 2-0 quickly to the Guelph Storm in the second matchup of its week. Mbuyi had a pair of assists in the attempt to rally back, but Owen Sound fell 6-3.

    In the last game of the regular season, Mbyui scored on the power play as the Attack built a big lead in the second period. The Attack surrendered the lead with the Kitchener Rangers storming back to tie the game at 7 late in the third period. The 5-foot-11 winger picked up a secondary assist as the Attack snuck away in overtime.

    Lars Steiner | RW | Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

    Despite missing time in his draft year due to an upper body injury, Swiss winger Lars Steiner enjoyed a successful draft year in the QMJHL. In 44 games, the 17th-ranked skater on the Draft Prospect Hockey 2026 NHL Draft Ranking, scored 30 goals which was fourth among draft-eligible players in that league despite playing at minimum 18 fewer games than those ahead of him.

    The HC Davos product tied a career high with five points in the week’s opening game. The 5-foot-10 former All-CHL Rookie Team member got his night going with a secondary assist on a power play goal. He then had a natural hat trick with a goal at the end of the first period and a pair in the second. He added a power play goal in the third as the Huskies ran away with a 9-0 win.

    Steiner had a lone assist in his team’s second game of the week.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    As the NHL season comes closer to the end, the focus intensifies on the 2026 NHL Draft. Especially for fans and management of teams that won’t be competing for the right to lift Lord Stanley’s mug, now is the time to try to figure out which players will best help your club in the future. This week’s three stars are highlighted by the first player in the Canadian Hockey League to top the 100 point mark, a Latvian winger who is hoping to find an NHL home in his second year of eligibility, and a Western Hockey League (WHL) defender who is fighting for the top billing of rearguards from that league.

    Markus Ruck | C | Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)

    Markus Ruck continued his sensational draft year this week by becoming the first player in Canadian major junior to pass 100 points. The Okanagan Prep alumnus is up to 102 points (20 goals, 82 assists) in 66 games. The highly skilled and very smart offensive forward still has work to do in his own zone, but the high-end offensive talent will certainly have NHL teams interested in bringing him in.

    The 6-foot, 168-pound center led all draft-eligible players in scoring in the last week with eight points (a goal and seven assists) in three games. Ruck piled up four assists, collecting first-star honors, as the Tigers rolled over the Regina Pats 6-0.

    The Tigers then had a Friday and Saturday home-and-home mini-series with the Lethbridge Hurricanes. In the first meeting, Ruck picked up a secondary assist on Montreal Canadiens prospect Bryce Pickford’s 44th goal of the season but didn’t make any other noticeable impact on the scoresheet. The next night he had a much bigger role in helping his team secure a 6-5 overtime win. He notched a primary assist on twin brother Liam’s 42nd goal of the campaign to draw the Tigers back to 4-3 early in the third period. The WHL sophomore scored midway through the third to make it 5-4 and then had a secondary assist on the overtime winner.

    Bruno Osmanis | RW | IF Björklöven (Allsvenskan)

    Despite strong production in the Swedish U20 circuit in 2024-25 and a memorable role in Latvia’s upset of Canada at the World Juniors, Bruno Osmanis went undrafted. The Latvian winger has a good chance to be selected this time with another strong World Junior tournament in 2025-26 (six points in five games) and increased production with his club teams.

    Splitting his time between IF Björklöven in Allsvenskan (22 games) and U20 Nationell (24 games), the skilled playmaker has added a little more goal scoring to his arsenal. At the pro level, Osmanis has nine points (four goals and five assists) after just seven (one goal and six assists) a year ago. Osmanis has 30 points (14 goals, 16 assists) playing against just his peers in U20.

    Playing for their lives in the U20 Nationell relegation tournament, Osmanis has been sensational. He opened with scoring a pair of goals while adding an assist in a 6-3 win over Huddinge IK U20. He followed it up with two goals and two assists as his team bested Sollentuna HC U20 7-4.

    Carson Carels | LHD | Prince George Cougars (WHL)

    Carson Carels and Daxon Rudolph continue to battle for the right to be the first WHL defenseman to hear their name called in June. The Prince George rearguard is one point behind Rudolph despite having played in 11 fewer games. Carels is third among draft-eligible defenders in the CHL in points with 73 (20 goals, 53 assists).

    The youngest member of Team Canada at the 2025-26 World Juniors is currently ranked the 14th-ranked skater on Draft Prospect Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Prospect Rankings. The Cypress River, MB native had a big week for the Cougars as the team made strides towards overtaking the Kelowna Rockets for the three seed in the WHL’s Western Conference.

    In the first game of the week, Carels fired a puck on goal with just over 30 seconds left, and a teammate drove home the rebound to send the game to overtime. In the extra frame, Carels held the line and skated in with the puck before dishing it to draft-eligible forward Brock Souch for an easy shot over a sprawling goalie.

    In a very tight second game of the week, Carels fired a point shot that redirected in for the only goal of the game in a 1-0 shutout win over the Wenatchee Wild for San Jose Sharks prospect Joshua Ravensbergen. The next night in a rematch with the Wild, the 6-foot-2, 194 pound defender was all over the scoresheet in a 5-0 win. He had primary assists on two power play goals as the Cougars got out to a 2-0 lead. Midway through the third, he scored his 20th goal of the season. He polished off the game with a perfect shorthanded breakaway pass to Washington Capitals prospect Terik Parascak, who tucked it through the goalie’s five-hole.

  • Weekly Draft Eligible Three Stars: The Goalie Edition

    This week’s draft-eligible three stars is taking a different approach. The main focus has been on some of the top point getters among players trying to build up their stock for the 2026 NHL Draft, but this week it showcases three goaltenders. Leading the way is a Western Hockey League (WHL) puck stopper who posted back-to-back shutouts. Sticking in the WHL, an American keeper is leading the way for his club, only allowing two goals in a pair of games. Finally, another American in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is proving to be a key piece for a strong contender.

    Parker Snell | Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

    Edmonton Oil Kings goalie Parker Snell is one of the top draft-eligible goalies in the WHL this season. Despite his save percentage of .886, which ranks eighth in the league among draft-eligible puck stoppers (min. 10 games), his three shutouts and 2.94 goals against average (GAA) are both second in the WHL with those same qualifiers.

    Snell is not a huge goalie at 6-foot-2 and 179 pounds but has a strong technical base that makes him an intriguing prospect. The St. Albert, AB, native was the 21st-ranked goalie out of 37 on the NHL Central Scouting Mid-Term Ranking of North American goalies. Snell played in a pair of WHL games last season and stopped all 54 shots, earning one shutout. This season, Snell has split the crease and played 27 games, amassing a 17-7-1 record.

    The Northern Alberta Xtreme product held down the fort for the Oil Kings on Friday night as they were outshot 34-23 by the Red Deer Rebels. He stopped every puck thrown at him in the contest, coming away with first-star honors in a 2-0 victory. Back at it on Saturday night, Snell had a quieter night with a 20-save shutout in a 6-0 blanking of the Lethbridge Hurricanes.

    Harrison Boettiger | Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

    Harrison Boettiger has taken on the starting job for the Kelowna Rockets in his first season in the WHL. The Wheat Ridge, Colorado, native is second among draft-eligible keepers who have played at least 10 games in wins (21) and fourth in save percentage (.904).

    The United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP) product was excellent in the first inaugural USNTDP vs. Canadian Hockey League (CHL) Prospect Challenge in November 2024. After the US was pounded 6-1 in the first game, with current Sarnia Sting goalie Patrick Quinlan struggling against the high-flying offense of Team CHL, Boettinger got the start in game two. He was sensational, with 35 saves and a .921 save percentage, and almost got the game to overtime but lost 3-2 with a last-minute goal by Calgary Flames prospect Cole Reschny.

    Boettiger, now a CHL goalie, suited up for the other side in the 2025 edition of the challenge. Unfortunately for him, fellow draft-eligible goalie Brady Knowling outdueled him, making 42 saves to win the game 4-2.

    The seventh-ranked stopper by NHL Central Scouting in its Mid-Term Rankings for North American goalies had a strong week for the Rockets. On Wednesday night, Boettiger made 25 saves in a 4-1 win over the Seattle Thunderbirds. He followed it up on Saturday, turning away all but one of the Wenatchee Wild’s 26 shots to help secure a 5-1 win.

    Ryder Fetterolf | Ottawa 67’s (OHL)

    Ryder Fetterolf is really making a name for himself this season as one of the top netminders in the OHL. He is second in the league in both save percentage (.922) and GAA (2.11) with 26 wins in 36 games.

    The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania native ranked as the 16th goaltender on the NHL Central Scouting Mid-Term Rankings of North American goalies. He is committed to Penn State next season. Fetterolf was a star on the American prep school circuit, putting up a .940 save percentage with 49 wins in 61 games in his final season with the Gilmour Academy. He played in one game with the United States Hockey League’s Tri-City Storm that went very poorly, as he allowed six goals on 25 shots.

    The 18-year-old continued his hot play this week with a pair of stellar outings. On Thursday night, Fetterolf was beat twice in the first period but closed the door through the next two periods. He stopped all 10 shots as the 67’s coasted to an 8-2 win over the Saginaw Spirit. The Pittsburgh Penguins Elite program alumnus was the first star of the game Sunday afternoon. The 67’s built a 3-0 lead in the first period, and Fetterolf stopped all 28 shots by the Sarnia Sting as his club won 5-0.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    The road towards the 2026 NHL draft continues to narrow as the season inches closer to the end. June will be here before we know it, and before that, prospects across the world will be proving they deserve to have their names called by an NHL team. This week’s three stars feature two Americans who powered their American Ontario Hockey League (OHL) team to a pair of wins this week and a Western Hockey League winger in the middle of a breakout.

    Egor Barabanov | C | Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

    Egor Barabanov is enjoying a banner rookie season in the OHL. The Anaheim, CA, native is third in league scoring with 72 points (25 goals, 47 assists), behind only teammate Nikita Klepov and New York Rangers prospect Nathan Aspinall. The 19-year-old, who spent part of four seasons in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Sioux Falls Stampede and the Madison Capitals, was the 39th-ranked North American skater by NHL Central Scouting on its Mid-Term Rankings.

    Barabanov opened the week with a two-goal game against the Flint Firebirds in a 5-4 win. He scored a power play goal in the second period to take a 3-2 lead. He doubled down in the third period, scoring his 23rd goal of the season to tie the game at 4.

    The 6-foot, 181-pound forward followed that up with a career-high six points (one goal, five assists) in an 11-3 drubbing of the Sarnia Sting. Barabanov had three assists in the first period as the Spirit jumped out to a 4-1 lead in the first period. He added a pair of helpers in the second before notching the 11th goal for his squad in the third.

    The Anaheim Junior Ducks product polished off the week with a goal and assist in a 4-2 loss to the Windsor Spitfires.

    Nikita Klepov | RW | Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

    The Saginaw Spirit has one of the most dominant duos of draft-eligible players between Nikita Kelpov and Barabanov. The American OHL rookies sit at numbers two and three in league scoring. Klepov was a first-round pick of the Spirit in the 2025 CHL Import Draft after scoring 31 points (12 goals, 19 assists) in 59 games with the Sioux City Musketeers in the USHL. The 6-foot, 181-pound winger is the 38th-ranked skater on Draft Prospect Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Prospect Rankings.

    The Deerfield Beach, FL, native began the week potting a goal and three assists as the Spirit knocked off its American rival, the Flint Firebirds, 5-4. Klepov was all over the scoresheet again with another four-point outing against the Sarnia Sting. He finished the weekend with a lone assist in Saginaw’s 4-2 loss to the Windsor Spitfires.

    Beckett Hamilton | RW | Red Deer Rebels (WHL)

    Red Deer Rebels winger Beckett Hamilton loves to shoot the puck. The Humboldt, SK, native is averaging a team-high seven shots per game with an average of 3.9 shots on goal per game. Hamilton is on the smaller side at 5-foot-11 and 172 pounds, but that nose for the net should get fans and scouts excited. The 17-year-old has blown by his rookie point totals. After posting 25 points (14 goals, 11 assists) in 67 games in 2024-25, Hamilton is already at 46 points (19 goals, 27 assists) in 52 games in 2025-26.

    Hamilton led all draft-eligible players this week in shots on goal with 24 in three games. He opened up with seven shots on goal while picking up an assist in a 6-3 loss to the Everett Silvertips. The 75th-ranked North American skater by NHL Central Scouting had a pair of goals and assists for four points, including a helper on the overtime winner, as the Rebels eked out a 5-4 overtime win against the Medicine Hat Tigers. He wrapped up the weekend registering 10 shots on goal but not picking up any points in a 4-3 overtime win against the Lethbridge Hurricanes.

  • Weekly 2026 Draft Eligible Three Stars

    2026 is now a month old, with the calendar turning from January to February. As the 2026 NHL Draft continues to inch closer, here’s how some of the top scoring draft eligibles fared this week. This week’s three stars include two players who were passed over in previous drafts and are hoping to find NHL homes this time around, as well as a Swede who appears to be a potential late first-round pick.

    Lukas Sawchyn | RW | Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

    Edmonton Oil Kings winger Lukas Sawchyn has taken a big leap forward in his second season with the club. The younger brother of Florida Panthers 2023 second-round pick Gracyn, has 69 points (20 goals, 49 assists) in 48 games in 2025-26 after having 55 points (15 goals, 40 assists) in 66 games in 2024-25.

    The crafty winger’s impressive sophomore campaign in the WHL has made scouts take notice as he found himself ranked 168 on the NHL Central Scouting Mid-Term Rankings for North American Skaters. Bound for Arizona State in 2026, the 18-year-old, who turns 19 in February, is putting together a season that should get him more attention this time around.

    The 5-foot-10, 174-pound Grand Prairie, AB, native has been incredibly hot recently with 10 points (one goal, nine assists) in his last five games, eight of those in three games this past week. The Oil Kings started the week by dropping a 5-2 decision to the Calgary Hitmen, with Sawchyn chipping in a secondary assist. Traveling to Moose Jaw for its second game of the week, Edmonton got a four-assist performance from the Shattuck St. Mary’s alum, but it wasn’t enough to topple the Warriors as the Oil Kings fell 7-5. In the final contest of the week for the Oil Kings, Sawchyn chipped in a goal and a pair of assists in a 6-3 victory over the Swift Current Broncos.

    Ethan MacKenzie | LHD | Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

    Sawchyn’s junior teammate Ethan MacKenzie surprised a lot of people by being named to Team Canada for the 2025-26 World Junior Championships and played in all seven games for the bronze medal squad. The 19-year-old has found a new gear offensively in his fourth year in the WHL, with a career-high 44 points (16 goals, 28 assists) in 40 games.

    The 6-foot, 174-pound two-way defender is finding the back of the net at a much higher rate than ever before with six goals in his last ten games. He scored five goals in 54 games in the 2024-25 season. His rise this season has brought his name into focus as a re-entry for the 2026 NHL Draft, with NHL Central Scouting ranking him 74 among North American skaters in its Mid-Term Rankings.

    The West Kelowna, BC, native was the second-highest-scoring draft-eligible defenseman this past week with five points (three goals, two assists) in three games, while firing 12 shots on goal. His biggest game of the week was a two-goal, one-assist performance in a 6-3 win over the Swift Current Broncos. MacKenzie rifled a power play goal up over the Broncos goaltender for an early 2-0 lead. He potted an assist on the man advantage, firing a shot that was tipped in to give the Oil Kings a 3-0 cushion. He later added his second marker by walking in from the point and firing a wrist shot that beat the goalie cleanly on the glove side.

    Marcus Nordmark | RW | Djurgärdens IF (U20 Nationell)

    Swedish winger Marcus Nordmark has been one of the top draft-eligible players in Sweden’s top U20 junior league. With 37 points (14 goals, 23 assists) in 23 games, he trails only Alexander Command (38 points in 25 games) in scoring among players eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft. Nordmark has failed to really make an impact at the SHL level this season, with just one assist in four games. However, he’s only played very limited minutes, with 10:45 as his season high.

    Against his peers on the international stage, the 17-year-old has been dominant with 26 points (12 goals, 14 assists). His exploits have certainly got the hockey scouting community intrigued. He earned the number seven ranking on NHL Central Scouting’s Mid-Term Ranking for International Skaters and is the 22nd-ranked skater on the Draft Prospects Hockey 2026 NHL Draft Prospects Ranking.

    Nordmark trailed only Sawchyn this week in points by draft eligibles, with seven in two games. Nordmark was called up to the SHL for a game against Roglë but didn’t end up playing. He returned to the U20 team and torched Skellefteå AIK with a three-goal, three-assist night. He polished off his week with a goal to tie the game at one in a 3-2 overtime win for his team.