CHL Dominates 2026 NHL Draft Top Prospects Pipeline

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) continues to dominate as the primary source of top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft, with 16 of 27 'A' rated first-round candidates currently playing in the CHL and 19 having spent time there. However, the NCAA is gaining prominence as a pathway to the NHL, highlighted by Penn State freshman Gavin McKenna, who transitioned from the WHL following a recent NCAA rule change allowing CHL players to retain college eligibility. McKenna, expected to be a top draft pick, has made an immediate impact at Penn State and exemplifies the growing trend of players moving between the CHL and NCAA. Minnesota remains a significant contributor with 26 players on the NHL Central Scouting Preliminary Players to Watch list, including highly rated prospects Victor Plante and Mikey Berchild. The WHL also features prominently, with 85 players listed and five receiving 'A' ratings. These developments reflect a shifting landscape in hockey development, offering players more diverse routes to the NHL while maintaining the CHL's central role.