The 2026 NHL Draft mock is updated after front-office changes and NHL discipline affecting draft picks. The Vegas Golden Knights forfeited their second-round 2026 pick for blowing off the media after a clinching win, and Ottawa received a first-round pick back but remains locked at No. 32 overall. As a result, the draft has 63 selections in a full two-round mock. The first round includes Toronto selecting Gavin McKenna, San Jose taking Chase Reid, and Vancouver choosing Ivar Stenberg. The mock also notes coaching and management changes that could influence June decisions, while emphasizing positional needs such as right-side defense for San Jose.
"Most recently, the Vegas Golden Knights forfeited their pick in the second round of the 2026 NHL Draft for blowing off the media after their clinching win against Anaheim. Ottawa was given a first-round pick back, but they're locked at No. 32 overall. So there are only 63 selections in this updated, full two-round mock draft."
"In addition to a lot of excellent hockey taking place, some front office openings have been filled since our last mock draft. Those decisions could impact what those franchises do in June when the selections are made. Two would-be picks in this draft have now been impacted by the NHL slapping an organization with discipline."
"The Maple Leafs have a new general manager and the No. 1 pick. They do not have a head coach, however; they fired Craig Berube since our last mock draft. The coaching decision shouldn't have any impact on taking McKenna at No. 1 overall, however."
"The Sharks moving up to No. 2 overall has become noteworthy because they're reportedly open to trading the pick. The Sharks need defensemen - especially on the right side. Reid has a very good case to be the second player taken in this draft class, and he happens to fill a need for San Jose. Dream scenario for both sides of this pick... if the Sharks stay here."
Read at Bleacher Nation
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