The 2026 NHL Draft season is already under way with the completion of the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. For just the second time in their history at the tournament, Team USA took home the gold, defeating Team Sweden. Both rosters featured a number of high-end talents that could be potential first-rounders.
There were also a lot of promising names that were involved in the early showcase just before the junior season starts. As a result, a lot of draft-eligible names really stood out as top prospects. Here are the top 2026 draft-eligible names that performed really well at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Ethan Belchetz, LW, Team Canada
The 2024 first overall pick in the OHL Priority Draft, Ethan Belchetz was by far Canada’s most productive and impactful player with eight points in five games. His ability to be a force within the offensive zone as a result of his 6-foot-5, 227-pound frame was evident. He was a nightmare in front of the net, over powering defenders and making slick plays in tight. He pushed his way through traffic with ease and was constantly involved in battles all over the ice. He can easily bully his way past anyone and this tournament showed it.
Mathis Preston, RW, Team Canada
If you want to talk about a speed demon, Mathis Preston is just that. Finishing second in team scoring with seven points in five games, Preston was constantly making himself present every opportunity he had. He was quick with his speed and edges on the rush and was constantly buzzing in the offensive zone as a result. He was always opening things up, striking to the open spaces, making quick cuts to the inside and generated quality looks. He really was impressive and is going to have a big draft year.
Tynan Lawrence, C, Team Canada
Despite only putting up three points in five games, I really liked Tynan Lawrence’s game. He always does the little things right every shift. He was still intercepting and disrupting plays and showed a strong transitional game, leading to odd-man rushes. Although there wasn’t much in finishing his chances, he was constantly creating them for himself and taking advantage of mistakes from the opposition. His competitive drive and work ethic really showed and it’s a big reason why he’s successful.
Related: Finland at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup – A Fourth-Place Finish With Lessons Learned
Keaton Verhoeff, RD,…
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