Four months into the scouting season, and with the World Junior Championship concluded, prospects are solidifying their positions for the 2026 NHL Draft. Peter Baracchini of The Hockey Writers has released his Top 64 January Rankings, offering a mid-season assessment of the top players.
Ivar Stenberg, a winger from Frölunda HC in the SHL, has surged to the top spot, supplanting Gavin McKenna. Stenberg's impressive performance in a professional setting has made him a standout. McKenna, who transitioned to Penn State, hasn't consistently met expectations, impacting his ranking.
Here’s a look at Baracchini’s top 10:
- Ivar Stenberg (LW/RW, Frölunda HC)
- Gavin McKenna (LW, Penn State)
- Keaton Verhoeff (RD, Univ. of North Dakota)
- Tynan Lawrence (C, Boston University)
- Caleb Malhotra (C, Brantford Bulldogs)
- Chase Reid (RD, Soo Greyhounds)
- Ethan Belchetz (LW, Windsor Spitfires)
- Viggo Björck (C/W, Djurgårdens IF)
- Carson Carels (LD, Prince George Cougars)
- Ryan Lin (RD, Vancouver Giants)
Several players have significantly improved their draft stock, including Caleb Malhotra, Chase Reid, Oliver Suvanto, and Ilia Morozov. Adam Novotný, named a captain for the 2026 OHL Top Prospects Game, has also impressed with his offensive capabilities and two-way play. Novotný leads the Peterborough Petes in goals and is second in points. His smarts, skill, and physicality have been evident.
The rankings also feature prospects like Xavier Villeneuve, Daxon Rudolph, Malte Gustafsson, Mathis Preston, Juho Piiparinen, J.P. Hurlbert, and Alessandro Di Iorio. These rankings offer valuable insights for NHL teams as they prepare for the 2026 draft.
