NHL Prospect Alberts Smits Wins Prestigious E.J. McGuire Award Latvian defenseman Alberts Smits has been recognized for his exceptional character, competitiveness, and athleticism, earning him the 2026 E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence. The annual honor, presented by NHL Central Scouting, highlights the draft prospect who best embodies the qualities that make a player stand out on and off the ice. Smits, just 18 years old, has already made a significant impression on scouts, ranking second among international skaters on Central Scouting's final ranking. As he prepares to enter the NHL draft, Smits is expected to be selected within the top 10, a testament to his impressive skills and dedication to the sport.

Latvian defenseman Alberts Smits has been named the winner of the 2026 E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence, NHL Central Scouting’s annual honor for the draft prospect who best exemplifies character, competitiveness, and athleticism. The 18-year-old sits second among international skaters on Central Scouting’s final ranking and is expected to go inside the top 10 at […]