Ivar Stenberg leads the underrated shooters in the 2026 NHL Draft class that lacks an Auston Matthews-level pure finisher.
Best Shooters
Preston and Nordmark deliver pinpoint accuracy on the rush and in-zone, separating them from the rest of the class. Hemming and Novotny generate heavier shots that register as cannon-like releases from the slot. Reid adds elite shooting from the blue line, giving defensive prospects a rare offensive weapon. Stenberg earns the top underrated nod for consistent finishing without flashy volume. The absence of a generational scorer forces teams to value secondary finishers who convert at 15-20 percent rates in junior leagues.
Best Playmakers
McKenna possesses nearly generational vision that elevates teammates even when his own finishing remains imperfect. Villeneuve mirrors a Lane Hutson-lite style with dynamic passing when healthy, creating high-danger chances at a rate unmatched among defensemen. Stenberg sets tables through elite puck movement and anticipation, consistently placing passes in stride. Bjorck advances play with elite vision that turns neutral-zone transitions into sustained attacks. Cullen catalyzed an average NTDP squad by putting linemates in scoring positions 25-plus times per game last season. Hurlbert earns the underrated distinction for elite offensive-zone creativity despite defensive-zone inconsistencies.
Most Mobile
Hafele and Svensk represent truly elite skating at forward and defense respectively, posting top-end speed that separates them from average prospects. Villeneuve maintained dynamic presence with superior edgework when healthy, changing directions at full speed. Reid builds his entire game on two-way skating that allows seamless transitions. Preston and Lawrence apply speed and agility at elite levels during rush attacks, creating odd-man rushes at rates 30 percent above class averages. Lawrence stands out as the most underrated mobile forward for his ability to maintain pace in all three zones without the puck.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.