The 2026 NHL Draft has come and gone, and the hockey world is still buzzing with excitement. According to a new analysis from The Athletic, the Toronto Maple Leafs have emerged as the big winners of the draft, landing a haul of talented prospects that could give them a significant boost in the competitive North Division. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning, who were hoping to rebuild their depleted roster, have been left disappointed with a class that looks weaker than expected. With their draft picks, the Maple Leafs are poised to challenge for the Stanley Cup in the coming years, but the Lightning's struggles to replenish their talent pool raise serious questions about their long-term prospects.

Winners and losers of 2026 NHL Draft: Maple Leafs on top, Lightning class looks weak - The Athletic  The New York Times