As the race for the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft heats up, a compelling narrative is unfolding around Gavin McKenna and Katon Verhoeff. Long considered the frontrunner, McKenna’s dominance in the WHL has been overshadowed recently by the rising star Verhoeff, a defenseman whose impressive performances are starting to shift the spotlight. With McKenna absent from the Helink Gretzky Cup, Verhoeff has seized the opportunity to showcase his s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, raising questions about the certainty of McKenna’s top spot.

Gavin McKenna, with a staggering 129 points in 56 regular-season games and 38 points in 16 playoff games, has set the bar high. His transition to the NCAA is anticipated to be smooth, given his elite s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set and hockey sense. However, concerns about his physicality linger, as he will face tougher competition in the NCAA’s Big 10.

On the other hand, Katon Verhoeff is making waves with his blend of size and s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 212 lbs, he brings a rare combination of offensive prowess and defensive reliability. His performance at the Helink Gretzky Cup, including a strong showing as Canada’s best defender, has solidified his status as a formidable contender. Notably, Verhoeff’s statistics in the WHL—21 goals and 45 points in 63 games—underscore his potential to be more than just a point-producing defenseman.

As the draft approaches, team needs will play a crucial role in determining who goes first overall. While McKenna remains a strong candidate, Verhoeff’s all-around game could sway teams looking for a top-tier defenseman. The dynamic between these two players is not just about individual talent; it’s a fascinating interplay of positional needs and the evolving landscape of NHL drafting priorities.

In the end, while McKenna may still hold a 95% chance of being the first overall pick, Verhoeff’s ascent cannot be ignored. The 2026 NHL Draft promises to be an exhilarating showdown, one that could redefine expectations for both players as they carve their paths to the NHL.