The 2026 NHL Draft is shaping up to be a game-changer, and one name stands head and shoulders above the rest: Gavin McKenna. But here's where it gets controversial—while some might argue that McKenna’s transition to the NCAA hasn’t been as dominant as his junior league performance, TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button is doubling down on his No. 1 ranking. Button insists, ‘Gavin McKenna has had a big, big sample size of exceptional play,’ and projects him as the undisputed top pick. But is he really that far ahead of the pack? Let’s dive in.
McKenna, a Penn State winger, has tallied four goals and 18 points in 16 games this season. That’s impressive, but it pales in comparison to his jaw-dropping 41 goals and 129 points in 56 games last season with the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers. Still, Button isn’t worried. ‘When you project that out, no question that he’s the best player in the draft for me,’ he says. And this is the part most people miss—McKenna’s consistency and high-level play over multiple seasons make him a safer bet than flashier, one-season wonders.
But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: the battle for the title of best defenseman in the draft is wide open. Four blueliners are neck-and-neck in Button’s rankings, each bringing something unique to the table. Keaton Verhoeff (University of North Dakota), Juho Piiparinen (Tappara), Chase Reid (Sault Ste. Marie), and Carson Carels (Prince George) are all in the mix. Reid, for instance, is tearing up the OHL with 10 goals and 28 points in 25 games, showcasing his ability to think and skate fast—a must in today’s game. Carels, meanwhile, is averaging over a point per game with the Cougars and draws comparisons to Josh Morrissey. Bold prediction? One of these defenders could challenge McKenna’s top spot by draft day.
Climbing to No. 2 is Ivar Stenberg, a Frolunda forward with five goals and 20 points in 21 games in Sweden’s top league. The 18-year-old has already made a name for himself internationally, winning medals at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, U18s, and World Junior A Challenge. But is he a true No. 2, or just benefiting from a weaker field? That’s up for debate.
Here’s a counterpoint that might spark discussion: What about players like Xavier Villeneuve (Blainville-Boisbriand) or Oliver Suvanto (Tappara)? Villeneuve, ranked No. 15, is leading all defensemen in scoring with 27 points in 23 games and models his game after Lane Hutson. Suvanto, meanwhile, jumped from No. 21 to No. 8 on Button’s list, praised for his ability to make game-changing plays. Are they being overlooked?
And let’s not forget Oscar Hemming, the Finnish forward caught in a ‘legal quagmire’ over eligibility. Despite not playing this season, Button has him at No. 10, calling him ‘too good’ to ignore. But is that a risky move, or a stroke of genius?
As the draft approaches, one thing is clear: this class is deep, talented, and full of players who could redefine the league. But who will come out on top? That’s for you to decide. Let us know in the comments—do you agree with Button’s rankings, or do you see a dark horse contender rising to the top?
