The Toronto Maple Leafs have secured the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft after winning the draft lottery on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The Vancouver Canucks, who had hoped for a top selection, will pick third overall.
Lottery Results
The draft lottery, held in Toronto, determined the order for the first 16 picks. The Leafs, who missed the playoffs this season, saw their odds pay off as they jumped to the top spot. The Canucks, also a non-playoff team, will select third after the lottery results were announced.
Top Prospects
Penn State forward Gavin McKenna is widely projected to be the first overall pick. McKenna, a standout in the NCAA, has drawn comparisons to top NHL forwards. Another highly touted prospect, defenceman Matthew Schaefer, and forward Beckett Sennecke are also expected to go early in the draft. The trio were recently named finalists for the Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded to the NHL's top rookie.
The draft lottery results have significant implications for the rebuilding Leafs, who are looking to add elite talent to their prospect pool. The Canucks, meanwhile, will have a chance to select a top-tier player with the third pick.
Reactions
Leafs general manager expressed excitement about the opportunity to draft first, stating that the team is focused on selecting the best player available. Canucks management, while disappointed not to win the lottery, emphasized the depth of this year's draft class and confidence in making a strong selection at third overall.
The 2026 NHL Entry Draft is scheduled to take place in late June. The complete draft order for the first round will be finalized after the conclusion of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
