Carson Carels and Kayden Lemire are participating in the 2026 NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo, NY, alongside 90 top prospects. The event runs from June 1-6 and provides vital physical and medical evaluations for players ahead of the NHL draft scheduled for June 26-27. Notably, Carels, ranked No. 3 among North American skaters, had an impressive season with the Cougars, while Lemire is gaining recognition after a strong sophomore year. The Combine features various fitness tests and one-on-one interviews for teams to assess player potential.

By the Numbers
  • 73 points (20 goals, 53 assists) for Carson Carels in 58 games this past season.
  • 29 points (9 goals, 20 assists) for Kayden Lemire in a full 68-game season.
State of Play
  • The Combine hosts 56 forwards, 29 defensemen, and 5 goalies from NHL Central Scouting's final rankings.
  • Fitness tests include new evaluations like the Maximal VO2 bike test and a 10-meter sprint.
What's Next

Expect both Carels and Lemire to showcase their skills through various tests and interviews, which could significantly impact their draft stock. Following the Combine, player rankings may shift based on performance and assessments.

Bottom Line

Carels and Lemire represent promising talent for the upcoming NHL draft, and their performances at the Scouting Combine will be critical in shaping their professional futures. Keep an eye on their results as they navigate this pivotal moment in their careers.