The Toronto Maple Leafs have struck gold in the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery, securing the No. 1 overall pick in a dramatic Tuesday night drawing. With just 8.5% odds of landing the top spot, the hockey gods smiled on Toronto, setting the stage for a franchise-altering decision this June.
The big question now: will the Leafs select dynamic forward Gavin McKenna or the highly touted Ivar Stenberg? Both prospects are generating serious buzz around the league, and this choice could shape Toronto's future for years to come.
This year's lottery, held at the NHL Network studio in Secaucus, New Jersey, was broadcast live for the second consecutive season—adding an extra layer of drama for fans watching at home. The Leafs' pick was originally traded but included top-five protection, meaning Toronto gets to keep this franchise-altering selection.
Last year's lottery provided a similar Cinderella story when the New York Islanders defied 3.5% odds to win and eventually selected defenseman Matthew Schaefer with the top pick. Now, the Leafs hope to follow suit with a pick that could immediately impact their lineup.
As the hockey world buzzes about Toronto's good fortune, the NHL is also rolling out its major award finalists for the 2025-26 season. Here's a look at who's in the running:
Jack Adams Award (Coach) Finalist:
• Jon Cooper, Tampa Bay Lightning
Vezina Trophy Finalist:
• Andrei Vasilevskiy, Tampa Bay Lightning
Lady Byng Memorial Trophy Finalist:
• Anze Kopitar, Los Angeles Kings
Ted Lindsay Award (Most Outstanding Player) Finalists:
• Macklin Celebrini, San Jose Sharks
• Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning
• Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers
Masterton Trophy Nominee (Perseverance):
• Ville Husso, Anaheim Ducks
For Maple Leafs fans, this lottery win is more than just good luck—it's a chance to add elite talent to a roster already loaded with star power. Whether they choose McKenna or Stenberg, one thing is certain: the 2026 NHL Draft just became the most anticipated event in Toronto since the last playoff run.