16 Analysts Build 2026 NHL Top-20 Mock Draft as Sharks Hold Picks No. 2 and 20

Q: Will the Leafs’ controversial new GM trade the No. 1 pick, or is top prospect Gavin McKenna a lock for Toronto?

Gavin McKenna appears to be the overwhelming favorite to go No. 1 to Toronto, and a trade of the pick looks unlikely unless John Chayka receives an extraordinary offer. The strongest evidence is twofold. In the SJHN mock draft, TSN’s Mark Masters made the Leafs’ pick and said Chayka would take “the best player available,” identifying McKenna as that player. More importantly, a later report cited a source close to the NHL Combine saying Toronto told McKenna in his interview that it intends to draft him first overall. Chayka has also publicly praised McKenna’s skill set as “special.” That does not mean trade talk is fiction. Chayka has a reputation for bold, analytics-driven decisions and has said he is open to all options. Pierre LeBrun reported that Toronto is listening to calls and not shutting the door completely. But the bar is described as extremely high: an overwhelming package would likely need proven NHL players, premium picks, and a young core piece. Toronto’s situation also argues against moving the selection. After a 29-28-12 season, major defensive problems, injuries, and a depleted pipeline, the Leafs need elite young talent. McKenna is widely viewed as the top prospect in the class and a franchise-caliber addition. So while Chayka’s “controversial” profile keeps speculation alive, the best read right now is that the Leafs keep the pick and draft McKenna.

3 articles · Updated · San Jose Hockey Now · Jun 13

San Jose Hockey Now assembled 16 analysts for a top-20 mock draft centered on the 2026 NHL Draft, with the outlet handling the Sharks’ own selections.
Two first-round picks give San Jose unusual leverage: No. 2 overall and No. 20, making the Sharks one of the draft’s main focal points.
At No. 1, TSN’s Mark Masters projected the Toronto Maple Leafs to take winger Gavin McKenna, calling him the best player available.
The Sharks’ No. 2 slot drew the most debate, with discussion ranging from defenseman options such as Reid or Stenberg to a possible trade-down, underscoring how San Jose could shape the top of the board.