2026 NHL Draft Combine Showcases Top Prospects and Mock Draft Picks

The 2026 NHL Draft Combine took place June 1‑6 in Buffalo, New York, where roughly 90 elite prospects underwent interviews and fitness testing ahead of the June 26‑27 entry draft. Teams used the week to assess players’ physical abilities and personalities, with some clubs staging unusual interview questions such as asking players what animal they would be.

Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said the club will take a “best available player” approach with its fourth‑overall selection, eyeing prospects such as Swedish winger Ivar Stenberg, left‑handed defenseman Chase Reid and center Caleb Malhotra, among others. The broader mock draft released after the combine listed the top picks as: 1️⃣ Toronto Maple Leafs – Gavin McKenna (LW, Penn State), 2️⃣ San Jose Sharks – Chase Reid (D), 3️⃣ Vancouver Canucks – Caleb Malhotra (C), 4️⃣ Chicago Blackhawks – Ivar Stenberg (LW/RW), followed by selections for other clubs through the first round.