The Chicago Blackhawks could be in line for the top overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft, and this year’s No. 1 pick is being hyped as one of the most valuable in years. At the center of that buzz is Gavin McKenna, a projected franchise-changing talent.
The last time Chicago had the first overall pick, they secured Connor Bedard, who has already shown his star potential. But McKenna is regarded by scouts as an even greater prospect than Bedard or 2024’s No. 1 pick, Macklin Celebrini, raising the stakes for this draft lottery.
According to Tankathon’s latest projections, the Blackhawks are favored to win the rights to the first pick, with the San Jose Sharks slotted second.
Of course, that outcome would mean another bottom-three finish in the standings for Chicago — a tough pill to swallow in the short term, though the reward could make the struggles worthwhile.
Expectations around the league suggest the Blackhawks won’t be playoff contenders this season, but there are reasons for cautious optimism.
A full campaign from Frank Nazar, potential growth on defense, and steadier goaltending from Spencer Knight could stabilize the roster. Meanwhile, Bedard is expected to take another step toward superstardom.
If McKenna were to join Chicago, the team could boast one of the most exciting young cores in hockey, potentially pairing Bedard and McKenna as a lethal one-two punch down the middle.
That kind of depth would give the Blackhawks options—whether shifting Bedard to the wing, elevating Nazar, or creating three strong scoring lines.
With new coach Jeff Blashill also at the helm, the Hawks could surprise skeptics with a more competitive season, even if the ultimate prize lies in building toward the future.
