Every year, the Hlinka Gretzky Cup marks the start of the draft season. For prospects up for the 2026 NHL Draft, it’s starting to generate a great amount of buzz.
This year’s tournament is going to feature a number of quality names and players that will be at the top of the draft board. Unfortunately, there will be no Gavin McKenna– the early consensus for first overall as he gears up for his freshman season in the NCAA. Even Viggo Bjorck, Ivar Stenberg and Adam Novotny won’t be attending. However, there’s still a lot of high-end talent to watch in this tournament as they kick off their draft- season for NHL scouts.
While I would like to include Landon DuPont in this list, he isn’t up for the draft until next season and there will be plenty of time to see him. Here are nine draft-eligible names for the 2026 NHL Draft to keep an eye on at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Keaton Verhoeff, RD, Team Canada
Much like how Matthew Schaefer kicked off his draft year with a dominating performance at this tournament, Keaton Verhoeff is very much in line to do the same. The University of North Dakota commit had a solid rookie campaign with the Victoria Royals in the Western hockey League with 45 points in 63 games. At 6-foot-4, 212 pounds, he’s a very mobile, smart and confident defender, possessing great smarts on both sides of the puck. He provides a strong impact in the offensive zone while shutting things down and breaking up plays constantly defensively. He’s a well-rounded defender that can do it all and will be a key player as he captains Canada this year.
Tynan Lawrence, C, Team Canada
Finishing third in rookie scoring in the United States Hockey League with 54 points in 56 games, Tynan Lawrence always seems to elevate his play in big moments. He led all players in the playoffs in points with 18, winning the Clark Cup and MVP honours. He constantly displays a strong work ethic, tenacity and compete level in all three zones, constantly pressuring players and winning battles. He has great skill to be an offensive producer and his ability to win and maintain possession makes him a force. His defensive game really makes him a well-rounded player to be used in all situations.
Related: Landon DuPont’s Stellar Rookie Season to Carry Over to Hlinka Gretzky Cup
Daxon Rudolph, RD, Team Canada
Daxon Rudolph had an impressive rookie campaign…
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