Katie Gaus, Ryan Kennedy and Michael Traikos discuss some final thoughts on prospects and teams before the NHL draft, bold trade predictions, the Blue Jackets' acquisition of Valeri Nichushkin and more.
The Hockey News Big Show is here to preview the 2026 NHL draft in Buffalo.
Here's what Katie Gaus, Ryan Kennedy and Michael Traikos discussed in this episode:
0:00: Breaking down the top five prospects ahead of the 2026 NHL draft
2:27: Is Gavin McKenna ready for the NHL spotlight?
4:45: How will the San Jose Sharks handle the second overall pick?
6:39: What is Chase Reid's ceiling as a prospect?
8:15: Who will the Buffalo Sabres target with the fourth overall pick?
9:38: How much undecidedness is there among the top five prospects?
13:58: Which prospect will be the biggest riser and faller of the draft?
19:45: Bold trade predictions for the NHL draft
21:38: What are the Toronto Maple Leafs looking to get in return for Morgan Rielly?
25:20: Reacting to the Columbus Blue Jackets' acquisition of Valeri Nichushkin
28:53: Is Alex Ovechkin more likely to return to the Washington Capitals after their recent trades?
32:10: Could Jason Robertson end up earning more than $15-million per season?
35:50: Who are the top remaining free agents to target this summer?
38:15: Reflecting on funny moments when star players leave a city
39:50: Will there be a goaltender drafted in the first round?
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