Hockey fans, get your draft boards ready! The 2026 NHL Draft is just around the corner, and this year's class is packed with future stars who could be lighting up your favorite team's jerseys in no time. From a consensus No. 1 pick to a Swedish sensation, here are the 10 prospects you absolutely need to know.

First up, there's no debate at the top: Gavin McKenna has been the name on everyone's lips since last season, and he's only solidified that status. The 18-year-old forward had a phenomenal freshman campaign at Penn State, becoming the first Nittany Lion to notch 50 points in a season with 15 goals and 36 assists. He also dominated on the international stage, finishing second in scoring at the World Juniors with 14 points for Canada. Sure, he's a bit lean at 170 pounds, but his dynamic playmaking and ability to control the puck make him a game-changer for any NHL offense. He just kept getting better as the season went on, and that upside is impossible to ignore.

Hot on his heels is Anton Stenberg, an elite offensive talent from Sweden. This past season, he put up 33 points in the SHL—the fifth-most ever by an 18-year-old—showcasing his knack for creating scoring chances for himself and his teammates. At the World Juniors, Stenberg was a key driver for Sweden's gold medal run, tallying 10 points in seven games, including three in the championship match. He's comfortable on either wing, and with his older brother Otto already in the NHL with the St. Louis Blues, Anton has the pedigree to match his skill.

But the talent doesn't stop there. From power forwards to slick defensemen, this draft class is deep. Keep an eye on players like Keaton Verhoeff, a rugged blueliner who brings physicality and hockey sense, and several others who are ready to make the leap. Whether you're scouting for your fantasy team or just dreaming of the next superstar in your team's colors, these prospects are worth watching as the draft approaches in late June.