With the 2026 NHL Draft approaching, the latest episode of the NHL Draft Class podcast spotlighted new features at the Scouting Combine and evaluated several top prospects, including leading defensemen.
NHL Scouting Combine Highlights
This year’s NHL Scouting Combine is set for June 1-6 in Buffalo, where all 32 teams will interview prospects and conduct medical and fitness assessments. The combine will introduce two additions to its testing lineup: an isokinetic squat and a 10-meter sprint.
According to NHL Central Scouting associate director David Gregory, the isokinetic squat is designed to measure lower-body strength, a core attribute for hockey players. The 10-meter sprint gauges how quickly a player reaches top speed and how much power they generate over a short burst. A tethered device will track force and acceleration during the sprint.
Gregory is among the Central Scouting staff coordinating travel, medical and fitness testing, and interviews for the 91 invited prospects meeting with clubs this week.
The discussion also turned to Penn State left wing Gavin McKenna, viewed as a candidate to be the first overall pick in 2026. Gregory detailed how McKenna adapted to the college game at a younger age against older opposition and said his development over the season reinforced his standing at the top of the class.
He outlined where the defense group stands heading into the combine, identified prospects regarded as elite shooters and leading power forwards, and noted how the growing number of Canadian Hockey League players moving to NCAA programs is reshaping scouting evaluations.
Co-hosts Adam Kimelman and Mike G. Morreale reflected on previous combines and how the event has expanded over the years. The 2026 NHL Draft will be held June 26-27 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, with the first round on June 26 and rounds 2-7 on June 27. This draft promises to be an exciting event for teams and fans alike as they look forward to the emergence of new talent in the league.