According to Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, speaking with Erika Watcher on NHL Network, there’s a significant possibility of teams actively seeking to trade up in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft, particularly within the top 10 picks.
Pagnotta indicated that several franchises are “curious” about moving up the draft board, while others are open to listening to offers for their current picks. The San Jose Sharks, holding the second overall pick for the second consecutive year, are reportedly willing to consider trades for that selection. Similarly, the Chicago Blackhawks are said to be open to discussing their fourth overall pick.
Teams like the New York Rangers and the Calgary Flames are specifically mentioned as being interested in acquiring a higher draft position. The Flames, in particular, are looking to bolster their roster with a strong prospect at the sixth spot and are also reportedly open to trading various players to achieve their draft goals, indicating a willingness for creative strategies this offseason.
The Rangers are also expected to explore their options for moving up. Pagnotta suggests that even the Vancouver Canucks, following recent front office changes and coaching staff confirmations, might be looking to move up, potentially to acquire San Jose’s second overall pick. He anticipates that many teams will be engaged in trade discussions as the draft approaches, hoping for more draft-day excitement than seen in the previous year.
English Translation:
Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, speaking with Erika Watcher on NHL Network, suggested that there could be more significant movement at the 2026 NHL Draft. He indicated that several teams are interested in trading up in the first round, especially within the top 10.
Pagnotta mentioned that some teams are actively “curious” about moving up, and others are open to listening to offers for their draft picks. The San Jose Sharks, who possess the second overall pick for the second year in a row, are reportedly willing to consider trading it. The Chicago Blackhawks are also said to be open to discussions regarding their fourth overall selection.
Teams such as the New York Rangers and the Calgary Flames are identified as being interested in moving up the draft board. The Flames are looking to select a significant player at the sixth spot and are also reportedly open to trading various players, demonstrating a proactive approach to the draft and the summer offseason. They are willing to be “creative.”
The Rangers are also expected to explore opportunities to move up. Pagnotta speculated that the Vancouver Canucks, following recent changes in their front office and coaching staff, might also look to move up, potentially targeting San Jose’s second overall pick. He anticipates that many teams will be open to trade conversations, and hopes for more “fireworks” closer to the draft than were witnessed last year.
