NHL Draft

The NHL Draft is the annual event where all 32 NHL clubs select the rights to eligible amateur players, normally aged 18 to 20. The 2026 NHL Draft was held on 26-27 June in Buffalo, where the Toronto Maple Leafs took Gavin McKenna first overall. The NHL Draft runs seven rounds and 224 picks.

Rounds	7 (224 picks)
Eligibility	18 by 15 Sept, under 20; Europeans to 21
2026 host	KeyBank Center, Buffalo, 26-27 June
2026 first overall	Gavin McKenna, to Toronto
Format	Decentralized since 2025
Lottery	16 non-playoff teams, two draws, 10-spot maximum jump
2027 draft	Host and dates not yet announced

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