As the 2026 NHL Draft approaches, the league's landscape has undergone a significant transformation following a flurry of trades that have reshuffled the deck. With the likes of top prospects and established stars changing teams, the draft's first round is shaping up to be a thrilling and unpredictable affair. In this mock draft, NHL.com's experts will take a stab at predicting the first-round picks, taking into account the recent trade frenzy and the needs of each team. From the top contenders to the rebuilding clubs, every team's draft strategy will be put to the test as the NHL's future stars are selected.
Mock 2026 NHL Draft: 1st-round predictions after trade frenzy NHL.com
![[Dreger] The Blues front office is changing with Kevin Maxwell and Peter Chiarelli leaving the club to pursue other opportunities. Chiarelli is a candidate in NSH interview process and Maxwell is expected to return to NYR in a management role.](https://preview.redd.it/8hs9m3tumlrg1.jpeg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=ce4550e1caea7b79f0c63dd506935cd41dc4d243)
