The World Junior Championship showcases some of the brightest NHL prospects gearing up for the 2026 NHL Draft. As teams analyze these young players, a handful has emerged as standouts due to their exceptional performances. Here, we highlight the top 10 prospects who have caught the attention of scouts and fans alike.
Top 10 Standout NHL Draft Prospects at 2026 World Juniors
1. Tomas Galvas, Defenseman, Czechia
Tomas Galvas has made a name for himself in Czech hockey history. His impressive skating ability and quick, precise backhand passes are significant assets. At 5-foot-10, he has been overlooked in past drafts but is now showcasing his talent on a larger stage.
2. Gavin McKenna, Left Wing, Canada
Gavin McKenna has proven to be Canada’s most consistent forward, registering points in every game. With three goals and six assists, his offensive skills, particularly on the power play, have impressed scouts. His two-way play suggests significant growth, making him a key player to watch.
3. Otto Stenberg, Forward, Sweden
Otto Stenberg is a highly skilled prospect expected to vie for the top position in the upcoming draft. Despite limited production in one game, he has scored several critical goals, demonstrating the ability to perform under pressure and contribute to his team’s success.
4. Chase Reid, Defenseman, USA
After an injury sidelined Cole Hutson, Chase Reid stepped up to become a pivotal player for the USA. His instincts on the power play and creative passing skills indicate that he could be a top-five pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, showcasing a bright future ahead.
5. Anton Frondell, Forward, Sweden
Anton Frondell’s strong performances have made him a standout during the tournament. With multiple points in round-robin play, he exhibited impressive hockey IQ, making him a likely first-rounder for the upcoming draft.
6. Matias Vanhanen, Left Wing, Finland
Even without scoring a goal, Matias Vanhanen has been integral to Finland’s top line. His playmaking and ability to support teammates have been crucial, earning him recognition throughout the tournament.
7. Tomas Chrenko, Center, Slovakia
Tomas Chrenko has shown remarkable offensive prowess, particularly on the power play. He finished as Slovakia’s key player, recording multiple points and significantly raising his draft stock.
8. Bruno Osmanis, Right Wing, Latvia
Bruno Osmanis has emerged as one of Latvia’s few offensive bright spots. His aptitude during power plays and quick skating have made him a notable player in the tournament, solidifying his reputation.
9. Luka Radivojevic, Defenseman, Slovakia
Luka Radivojevic’s return greatly improved Slovakia’s defense. With raw talent and hockey sense, he excelled throughout the tournament and will be looking forward to another World Juniors experience next year.
10. Other Notable Prospects
- William Bundgaard, RW (Denmark)
- Jasper Kuhta, RW (Finland)
- Ethan MacKenzie, D (Canada)
- Dustin Willhöft, C (Germany)
- Nils Maurins, G (Latvia)
- Lars Steiner, C (Switzerland)
These prospects are not only pivotal to their national teams but have also significantly enhanced their draft potential. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will remain on them as they strive for excellence on the international stage.
