The Calgary Hitmen organization is celebrating after defenceman Ben MacBeath was selected by the New York Rangers in the second round of the 2026 NHL Draft, going 64th overall. The draft took place Saturday in Buffalo, N.Y.
MacBeath's Rise Through the WHL
MacBeath joined the Hitmen via a trade with the Kelowna Rockets, who originally selected him in the seventh round of the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft. The Calgary native quickly made an impact, leading all Hitmen blueliners in scoring during his rookie season with seven goals and 44 assists for 51 points in 67 regular-season games.
His performance earned him a nomination for WHL Rookie of the Year. The left-shot defenceman also represented Canada at the 2026 IIHF U18 World Championship, finishing with a plus-5 rating.
Hitmen Leadership Proud of MacBeath
“As an organization, we are very proud to have Ben selected in the 2026 NHL Draft. Ben is a talented player but most importantly an outstanding person with high character,” said Hitmen general manager Cass Bruni. “We are excited to see him continue to grow his game as he aspires to play in the NHL.”
MacBeath Joins Elite Hitmen Alumni
MacBeath joins a growing list of highly drafted Hitmen alumni, including Ben Kindel, who was selected 11th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2025 NHL Draft, and Carter Yakemchuk, who was chosen seventh overall by Ottawa in 2024.
The Hitmen now turn their attention to the CHL Import Draft, scheduled for Tuesday.
