Vancouver Canucks weigh options for No. 3 pick in 2026 NHL Draft
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 5
Vancouver Canucks weigh options for No. 3 pick in 2026 NHL Draft
8 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 5
After Toronto won the lottery and San Jose took No. 2, anonymous NHL scouts said Vancouver could trade down, target rising centre Caleb Malhotra or hope winger Ivar Stenberg slips.
Malhotra's 26 points in 14 OHL playoff games have pushed him into top-five, even No. 2, discussion, while scouts remain split on defenceman Keaton Verhoeff's upside and decision-making.
With Gavin McKenna expected to go first and little consensus beyond the top tier, Vancouver's June choice could hinge on whether it prioritises positional need, ceiling or extra assets.
Given the draft's drop-off after the top two, should the Canucks gamble on one player or trade down for multiple assets?
As college stars now earn millions, how is this new money landscape reshaping NHL scouting and player valuation?