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2026 NHL Draft preview: college hockey’s record first-round surge

2026 NHL Draft preview: college hockey’s record first-round surge

Author: USCHO June 26, 2026 Duration: 14:05
USCHO Weekend Review
SportsHockey
The 2026 NHL Draft begins tonight in Buffalo, and college hockey could be headed for a historic first round.

In this USCHO NHL Draft Special, Jim Connelly looks at the growing number of first-round prospects with college hockey ties, including current NCAA players and incoming college-bound players from the CHL, USHL, NTDP and international paths.

The episode features insight from NHL Central Scouting’s Dave Gregory on how scouts evaluate prospects across different leagues and development routes, including why college hockey can provide important context for draft-eligible players competing against older, stronger opponents.

Also featured:

• Gavin McKenna and what Penn State revealed about his NHL projection
• Tynan Lawrence and Oscar Hemming adjusting to Hockey East midseason
• Brady Knowling, the top-ranked North American goaltender
• Chase Reid, Carson Carels and Keaton Verhoeff among the high-end defensemen
• Names to know among the top college-linked North American skaters
• A dark horse first-round name to watch


Find all of our podcasts at USCHO.com/podcasts

Every Monday, when the college hockey season is in full swing, the USCHO Weekend Review arrives to catch you up on everything you might have missed. This isn't just a dry recap of scores; it's a conversation about the stories unfolding on the ice across all divisions. You'll hear analysis of those pivotal weekend series that shifted conference standings, discussions on how the playoff picture is coming into focus, and recognition of the individual players who truly stood out. The podcast also ties in the broader news from the preceding week, providing context to the on-ice action. It's designed for fans who live for the details and the drama of collegiate hockey, offering a concise yet thorough audio briefing to start your week. Produced by USCHO, this is the essential companion for anyone following the fast-paced world of college hockey, delivering informed perspective straight from the heart of the sport. Tune in each week for the insights that go beyond the box score.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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