The San Jose Sharks made headlines during the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft by selecting defenseman Alexander Karmanov with the 201st pick in the seventh round. Hailing from Chisinau, Moldova, Karmanov is an impressive 7-foot-1 and weighs 272 pounds, making him a unique addition to the league. His selection not only marks a significant milestone for the Sharks but also for the NHL, as Karmanov becomes the tallest player ever chosen in an NHL draft.
A Historic Moment for Moldovan Hockey
At just 18 years old, Karmanov’s achievement is monumental, as he is also the first player ever drafted from Moldova. This accomplishment highlights the growing diversity in the sport, showcasing talent from various parts of the world. For context, the tallest player to win the Stanley Cup is Zdeno Chara, who stands at 6-foot-9 and is a 2025 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee. Currently, the tallest active player in the NHL is New York Rangers forward Matt Rempe, who also measures 6-foot-9.
In a remarkable turn of events during the same draft, the Winnipeg Jets made history by selecting defenseman Alofa Tunoa Ta’amu with the 199th pick. Ta’amu is now recognized as the first player of Samoan descent to be drafted into the NHL, further enriching the narrative of diversity within the league. His father, Ed Ta’amu, was a notable fourth-round NFL Draft pick by the Minnesota Vikings, illustrating a legacy of athletic prowess in the Ta’amu family.
Both Karmanov and Ta’amu’s selections during the 2026 NHL Draft signify a shift in the landscape of hockey, as more players from varied backgrounds are breaking into the league. As teams continue to scout talent globally, the future of the NHL looks promising, not only in terms of skill but also in the representation of different cultures and heritages.
The 2026 draft will undoubtedly be remembered for these groundbreaking selections, setting the stage for a new generation of hockey players who will inspire future athletes from their respective countries.