The Ottawa Senators are guaranteed to select a player with the 32nd overall pick at the 2026 NHL Draft this weekend, an asset they cannot trade due to a botched 2021 deal with the Vegas Golden Knights. General manager Steve Staios cannot move this pick, making it a critical opportunity to restock the team's prospect pool, especially up front after adding Kasper Halttunen and Brandon Svoboda in the William Eklund trade.
Jaxon Cover: A Unique Story
Jaxon Cover, a right winger, has one of the most remarkable backgrounds in the draft. Growing up in the Cayman Islands, he played roller hockey on the territory's only rink, which has no ice. He moved to Canada at age 12 and didn't play ice hockey or know all the rules until his U14 year. Despite this late start, he was selected by the London Knights in the fourth round of the OHL Draft after playing AAA hockey. In his 17-year-old rookie season with the Knights, Cover recorded 52 points (20 goals, 32 assists) in 67 games. He is committed to Penn State University but joined the Knights after NCAA eligibility rules were revised. Cover is still learning fundamentals but possesses raw talent that gives him a high ceiling. According to the article, he has "some of the best raw talent in the entire draft class." While picking Cover is a risk, his rapid development suggests he could become a home-run selection.
Egor Shilov and Russian Prospects
With the Senators no longer opposed to drafting Russians, Egor Shilov, a center, is an intriguing option. He was the top-scoring rookie in the QMJHL this past season, amassing 82 points (32 goals, 52 assists) in 63 games with the Victoriaville Tigres. Shilov is a flashy, creative forward with elite puck skills and confidence, but his defensive game and compete level have been criticized. He would excel on the power play and has star potential if his all-around game improves.
Other Forwards and Defencemen
The article highlights eight forwards and two defencemen who could be available at No. 32. Among them are the Ruck twins, Elton Hermansson, and others. The Senators' prospect cupboards need restocking, particularly up front, making this pick crucial. The draft is deep, and the team is almost guaranteed to select a quality player at this spot.
