NHL Draft: Ivar Stenberg Proved Why He's Worth Going First Overall

Ivar Stenberg might not be the first name off the board on June 26 in Buffalo, but he absolutely deserves to be part of that conversation. Finishing first on NHL Central Scouting's European skaters is just part of it.

Amid all the McKenna buzz in the United States and Canada, Stenberg produced at a historic level in the Swedish League, played a starring role in Sweden's golden world juniors and embodied what NHL teams look for in talents who lead by example.

"His skill is up there with the best players in the world, but he works hard as well," said Stenberg's world junior teammate, fellow NHL draft prospect Viggo Bjorck.

Ivar Stenberg and Gavin McKenna have been in the conversation for first overall in the 2026 NHL draft for most of the season. No matter who goes first, fans need to know how impressive Stenberg has been this year.

thehockeynews.comNHL Draft: Ivar Stenberg Proved Why He's Worth Going First OverallIvar Stenberg and Gavin McKenna have been in the conversation for first overall in the 2026 NHL draft for most of the season. No matter who goes first, fans need to know how impressive Stenberg has been this year.

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