As the 2026 NHL Draft approaches, hockey fans are eagerly anticipating the next crop of talented young players who will be making the leap from junior and international competition to the professional ranks. Top international skaters from around the world are being closely watched by NHL scouts, and their performances at upcoming tournaments could have a significant impact on the draft's outcome. The likes of Connor Bedard, Logan Cooley, and Simon Edvinsson are already household names among hockey enthusiasts, but other international skaters, such as Finnish forward Kaapo Kakko's younger counterparts, are also making waves in the global hockey scene. With the NHL's growing global reach, the pool of talented international players is deeper than ever, and fans can expect some thrilling storylines to emerge as the draft draws near.
Top International skaters discussed ahead of 2026 NHL Draft 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)
