Five prospects with rising stock for the 2026 NHL draft

NHL draft season is ramping up, and the 2026 class has seen significant movement since the start of the year. While some prospects have slipped, a select group has surged forward with impressive performances across junior leagues. These risers are catching scouts’ eyes with their playmaking, physicality, and potential.[1][2]

Focusing on the positive, here are five players who have boosted their draft stock dramatically. From dominant rookies in the QMJHL to physical beasts in the OHL and skilled forwards in the USHL and NCAA, these prospects embody the excitement of the upcoming draft.

Tommy Bleyl, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)

Tommy Bleyl has enjoyed a dream rookie season in the QMJHL with the Moncton Wildcats. The defenseman racked up 81 points in 63 regular-season games, leading all blueliners in scoring and assists with 13 goals and 68 helpers.[2] His plus-58 rating underscores his defensive reliability alongside offensive flair.

Bleyl’s playoff production has been equally stellar, maintaining over a point per game. He notched 11 points in eight games early in the postseason, helping Moncton advance.[3] Recently named QMJHL Defenseman and Rookie of the Year, his smooth skating and elite passing have drawn comparisons to top prospects.[4]

Scouts praise Bleyl’s ability to use mobility to create space. He quarterbacks the power play effectively and transitions the puck seamlessly. His vision and puckhandling make him a potential top pick from the Q, possibly ahead of Xavier Villeneuve or Maddox Dagenais.

NHL Central Scouting ranks him highly among CHL skaters at No. 17 North American.[5] As playoffs continue, Bleyl’s stock could climb into first-round conversations. For more on his profile, check EliteProspects’ 2026 draft rankings.[2]

Bleyl’s rapid rise highlights the depth in this draft class. At just 18, his ceiling is sky-high.

Oscar Hemming, Boston College (NCAA)

Oscar Hemming burst onto the NCAA scene at Boston College as a freshman, making waves at the prestigious Beanpot tournament. His size at 6-foot-4 and 198 pounds, combined with power forward attributes, has scouts buzzing.[6]

In 19 games, Hemming posted eight points, showing puck protection and physicality beyond his years. His best performances came in high-stakes games like the Beanpot, where BC advanced with his contributions.[7] A projected first-rounder, some see top-10 potential as his scoring pops next season.

Hemming’s transition from junior hockey was seamless despite midseason arrival. He joined BC over the holidays and quickly impacted the lineup with his left-shot drive to the net.

Experts note his NHL pedigree—previously with Kitchener Rangers—and international experience. Bleacher Report slots him around No. 12 in recent big boards.[8]

With more ice time ahead, Hemming’s physical tools could elevate him further. His story is one of adaptation and upside.

Maksim Sokolovskii, London Knights (OHL)

Maksim Sokolovskii embodies the rare big, mobile defenseman archetype at 6-foot-8 and 238 pounds. Starting the season with limited minutes for London, he earned trust and a larger role as the year progressed.[9]

In 44 games, Sokolovskii tallied eight points while excelling physically—49 PIM and constant hits. His penalty-kill prowess and shutdown ability stand out in a league full of skill.

NHL Central Scouting ranks him No. 40 among OHL skaters in final rankings, a testament to his rise.[10] Scouts love his nastiness and skating for his size, drawing shutdown specialist comps.

Sokolovskii’s development trajectory screams projectable. Filling out his frame further could make him a top-four staple.

As London pushes in playoffs, his physical edge will shine. He’s the kind of prospect teams build around for playoff grit.

Blake Zielinski, Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL)

Blake Zielinski exploded after the World Jr. A Challenge, becoming a USHL standout despite thin support on Des Moines. The Providence commit finished with 55 points in 53 games—25 goals, 30 assists.[2]

Recently awarded the Gaudreau Award for embodying USHL spirit, Zielinski also earned All-American honors.[11] NHL Central Scouting has him at No. 51 North American.[12]

His offensive IQ, rounding defense, and two gold medals internationally boost his profile. After Hlinka success, he dominated domestically.

Zielinski’s comfort in high-pressure spots signals pro readiness. Scouts see middle-six forward potential.

With Providence looming, his USHL finale could cement lottery status. For draft context, see NHL Central Scouting’s rankings.[13]

Alexander Bilecki, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

Alexander Bilecki ignited midseason on powerhouse Kitchener, showcasing smarts and skating. In 66 games, he produced 29 points from the blue line—nine goals, 20 assists.[2]

NHL Central Scouting lists him No. 49 OHL, reflecting his upward trajectory.[14] As a puck-mover needing strength, his offense projects higher.

Bilecki’s poise on a top team highlights two-way growth. Playoff goals, like against Windsor, show clutch ability.[15]

Scouts excite over untapped scoring. Filling his 6-foot-2, 181-pound frame unlocks elite potential.

Kitchener’s success amplifies his visibility. He’s a classic riser with high floor.

These five prospects signal a deep 2026 draft. Their surges amid league dominance position them for big gains in final rankings. As playoffs unfold and combine nears, watch how teams value their unique skills—Bleyl’s offense, Sokolovskii’s size, and beyond. This class promises impact players for rebuilding squads.[16]