The NHL Draft Lottery has generated significant interest, especially with top prospects like Gavin McKenna and Dalibor Stenberg. As teams eye their future, these players are considered among the best available for the upcoming draft.
Gavin McKenna: A Rising Star
Gavin McKenna, standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 170 pounds, is currently ranked No. 1 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting for the 2026 NHL Draft. He captured attention last summer when he transitioned from the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL to the NCAA. This season, McKenna delivered an impressive performance, accumulating 51 points with 15 goals and 36 assists in just 35 games, placing him fifth in NCAA scoring.
At only 18 years old, McKenna’s achievements have set him apart. He holds the potential to be the first player from Penn State to be selected in the first round of the NHL Draft. Previously, Charlie Cerrato was the highest-drafted player from the program, going in the second round last year at 49th overall.
Dan Marr, director of NHL Central Scouting, praised McKenna’s exceptional talent and hockey intelligence. “Gavin has been a consistent performer for over three years, often outshining older competition,” he noted. McKenna’s strategic gameplay sets him apart, making him a dynamic offensive force for Penn State. He broke nine program records and distinguished himself as the first freshman to surpass 50 points in a season. After an impressive showing at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he scored 31 points in 17 games, his future in the NHL looks promising.
Dalibor Stenberg: The International Sensation
Dalibor Stenberg, another standout prospect, is currently rated No. 1 among International skaters. At 5-foot-11 and weighing 183 pounds, he made a name for himself in the SHL while playing for Frolunda. This season, Stenberg achieved 33 points, netting 11 goals and providing 22 assists in 43 games. His performance is notable, making him the fifth-highest scorer for an 18-year-old in SHL history.
Stenberg’s accomplishments include helping Sweden secure a gold medal at the 2026 World Junior Championship, where he was a key player. He contributed significantly with 10 points—four goals and six assists—in seven games, including a standout performance in the championship match against Czechia.
Jukka-Pekka Vuorinen, the NHL Director of European Scouting, highlighted Stenberg’s intelligence on the ice. “He possesses a high hockey IQ with elite awareness and decision-making skills,” Vuorinen remarked. Stenberg’s ability to combine playmaking and scoring makes him a versatile asset, recognized for his strong two-way play and defensive competence.
Potential Top Picks in the NHL Draft
With an eye toward the upcoming NHL Draft, McKenna and Stenberg are undoubtedly two of the most sought-after prospects. Their unique skills and impressive track records position them as potential top picks, attracting the attention of NHL teams aiming to strengthen their rosters.
- Gavin McKenna: 51 points (15 goals, 36 assists) in NCAA.
- Dalibor Stenberg: 33 points (11 goals, 22 assists) in SHL.
- World Junior Championship: McKenna won bronze with Canada; Stenberg won gold with Sweden.
As teams prepare for the draft, the future of NHL hockey looks bright with emerging talents like McKenna and Stenberg leading the charge.
