Timmy Runtso impresses at 2026 NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo

Victoria Royals defenseman Timmy Runtso attended the 2026 NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo, New York, where he met with a majority of the league’s 32 clubs. The week‑long event featured medical evaluations, fitness testing and individual interviews, giving prospects a final chance to showcase their abilities before the draft.

Runtso posted strong physical results, finishing third in the horizontal jump, seventh in the left‑side pro‑agility test and ninth on the right side. He described the Wingate cycle ergometer test as “the hardest 30 seconds of my life.” The combine also included mental drills, such as a confidence‑meter exercise involving puck‑throwing accuracy.

The 19‑year‑old, who recorded 11 goals and 33 assists for 44 points in 68 games this season, highlighted his experience with the Royals’ power‑play unit and his role as one of the top rookie defencemen in the WHL. Runtso is committed to Miami University (Ohio) for the 2026‑27 season and expects to be selected in the early to mid rounds of the upcoming NHL Draft.