2026 NHL Draft: Teams Target Top Prospects Amid Trade Moves

The Boston Bruins traded forward Andre Gasseau and a 2026 fourth‑round pick to the San Jose Sharks for a higher fourth‑round selection and an additional 2026 fifth‑round pick, expanding their haul to eight picks in the upcoming draft.

Analyst Tony Ferrari highlighted wingers Ivar Stenberg and McKenna as the two best players in the class, noting Stenberg’s all‑round game and McKenna’s playmaking despite defensive concerns.

The Philadelphia Flyers, sitting outside the top five, outlined five potential trade‑up targets such as center Tynan Lawrence and forward Alexander Command, both praised for size, speed and work ethic.

The Chicago Blackhawks, after falling to the fourth overall slot, listed five prospects they could select, including center Caleb Malhotra, defensemen Alberts Smits, Keaton Verhoeff and Chase Reid, each evaluated for their ability to become immediate contributors.

These moves illustrate how several NHL clubs are positioning themselves through trades and scouting to capitalize on the talent pool ahead of the 2026 draft in Buffalo.