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Defying the odds, the Toronto Maple Leafs brought a much-needed jolt of optimism to their fans by landing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. The surprise instantly brings to mind the shock of last year’s New York Islanders win, when they leaped from low odds to claim the top pick and give their fans hope for a bright future. This time, the spotlight shines on Toronto, a hockey-mad city brimming with Stanley Cup dreams and shattered by disappointments — after the Leafs entered the lottery with only an 8.5 percent chance and now find themselves holding hockey’s most prized opportunity.
The lottery itself took place at NHL Network Studios in Secaucus, New Jersey, but now, with playoff excitement in the air, attention turns to Buffalo. That’s where fans will gather at KeyBank Center on June 26–27 for the 2026 NHL Draft. For Leafs supporters, this arena brings back memories—it’s the very same place where Toronto chose Auston Matthews first overall in 2016, a beloved moment that’s become a special part of the team’s modern story and now adds a sense of history and hope to this year’s celebration.
After the shocking announcement, Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka couldn’t hide his excitement during media interviews, calling it “a monumental opportunity for the organization.” He described it as a moment that could “alter the trajectory of the franchise.” Senior executive Mats Sundin, sharing in the anticipation, called the result “a reminder of what this franchise means to the game,” and highlighted the joy and hopes that come with the responsibility of drafting first overall. The sense of pride resonated with everyone in the room, as Leafs fans everywhere embraced the new possibilities.
As most of the hockey world knows, Gavin McKenna currently tops every mock draft as the fan-favourite for Toronto: a dynamic centre with superstar potential. Originally from Whitehorse, Yukon, McKenna is now impressing at Penn State and as an important cog on Canada’s junior national team, making him a player fans rally behind. With his incredible vision, speed, and creative flair, McKenna is already sparking big dreams among Leafs supporters, who can’t help but imagine him leading the next generation.
The Leafs’ possibilities don’t stop there. Caleb Malhotra, whose NHL pedigree already draws fans’ attention, has won admirers with his heady two-way game and natural leadership. Supporters see in him the kind of mature, composed centre every contender craves. Then there’s Swedish sensation Ivar Stenberg, whose dazzling skill and creative spark have made him a player fans across Europe can’t stop talking about—and one who could thrive under the bright Toronto lights.
Other names high on the NHL scouting radar include dynamic Floridian winger Nikita Klepov, whose offensive capabilities with Saginaw in the OHL have caught the attention of NHL scouts. Additionally, Keaton Verhoeff is a towering 6’4” defenceman playing at North Dakota and regarded as a potential top-four anchor on the blue line.
The current draft order places Toronto at No. 1, followed by San Jose, Vancouver, Chicago, and the New York Rangers, rounding out the top five — a group that ensures the lottery result will reshape the league’s competitive balance for years to come.
For a fanbase that went into the night simply hoping for a little good luck, the Maple Leafs have given their supporters an unforgettable thrill. The uncertainty is over — now, the real anticipation begins as Leafs Nation waits to see which young star will help shape their next chapter.
The current first-round order begins: Toronto, San Jose, Vancouver, Chicago, and the New York Rangers. Next are Calgary, Seattle, Winnipeg, Florida, Nashville, St. Louis, New Jersey, Islanders, Columbus, Detroit (pick transferred to St. Louis), and Washington.
Here is the draft order for the 2026 NHL draft:
2026 NHL Draft – First Round Order
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- San Jose Sharks
- Vancouver Canucks
- Chicago Blackhawks
- New York Rangers
- Calgary Flames
- Seattle Kraken
- kWinnipeg Jets
- Florida Panthers
- Nashville Predators
- St. Louis Blues
- New Jersey Devils
- New York Islanders
- Columbus Blue Jackets
- Detroit Red Wings (pick transferred to St. Louis)
- Washington Capitals
- Edmonton Oilers
- Boston Bruins
- Los Angeles Kings
- Minnesota Wild
- Ottawa Senators
- Montreal Canadiens
- Dallas Stars
- Colorado Avalanche
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- Vegas Golden Knights
- Anaheim Ducks
- Philadelphia Flyers
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Utah Hockey Club
For Leafs fans who spent the day just hoping to hang on to their pick, walking away with first overall truly feels like a dream come true. Against the odds, Toronto didn’t just win a lottery — they may have won the hearts of their city all over again.
