The 2026 NHL Draft is set to showcase a strong contingent of Manitoba-born players, with several prospects expected to hear their names called. Among the top candidates is defenceman Carson Carols of the Prince George Cougars, whose performance this season has drawn attention from scouts across the league.
Manitoba's NHL Draft Prospects
Carols, a 6-foot-2 blue-liner, recorded 12 goals and 38 assists in 68 games for the Cougars in the Western Hockey League. His offensive instincts and physical play have made him a potential mid-round pick. According to NHL Central Scouting, Carols is ranked among the top 100 North American skaters.
Other Manitobans to watch include forward Liam Chartrand of the Winnipeg Ice, who notched 25 goals and 30 assists this season, and goaltender Ethan Peters of the Brandon Wheat Kings, who posted a .912 save percentage. Both are projected as late-round selections.
Historical Context and Impact
Manitoba has produced numerous NHL players, including Jonathan Toews and Mark Scheifele. This year's draft class could add to that legacy. "It's a strong group from the province," said a WHL scout. "Several kids have the skill to make an impact at the next level."
The draft is scheduled for June 28-29, 2026, in Montreal. With 224 picks across seven rounds, Manitoba prospects are poised to contribute to the league's future talent pool.
