2026 NHL Draft Projection: Tankathon's Simulation Reveals Potential Draft Order and Future Stars
As the NHL gears up for the 2025-26 season, the anticipation is high with training camps about to begin. However, one intriguing aspect of the upcoming season is the 2026 NHL Draft. Tankathon has used its simulation software to project the potential draft order for 2026, offering fans a glimpse into the future.
According to Tankathon's simulation, the Chicago Blackhawks are projected to secure the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. This could mean adding another franchise center in Gavin McKenna to their roster, alongside Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, creating a formidable lineup for the Blackhawks.
In the mock draft order, the San Jose Sharks are slated to pick second, followed by the Seattle Kraken in the top three. Surprisingly, playoff teams from the previous season, the Montreal Canadiens and the St. Louis Blues, find themselves picking in the middle of the first round, indicating a potential shift in their postseason fortunes.
Tankathon's projection also suggests that the Utah Mammoth could make a playoff appearance in their second season, as they are predicted to secure the 17th pick. Additionally, the New York Rangers are expected to return to the postseason, landing the 20th overall pick in the draft.
The draft order also includes picks for the Stanley Cup Finalists, with the Sharks and Blackhawks set to bookend the first round. This scenario hints at a potential third consecutive Oilers-Panthers Stanley Cup Final, as the Panthers are projected to make a deep playoff run once again.
Tankathon's algorithm considers the previous standings and rankings to determine the draft order, highlighting potential matchups like a Panthers-Hurricanes Eastern Conference Final and an Oilers-Avalanche Western Conference Final. The simulation offers an intriguing look at the possible outcomes for the 2026 NHL Draft and the upcoming season.