Riley Steen, a defender for the Medicine Hat Tigers, is generating buzz ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft scheduled for June 26-27 in Buffalo. Selected in the sixth round of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Steen made a mark with a solid performance in his sophomore season, logging 12 points and a +22 rating in 57 games. His size and defensive skills have established him as a formidable presence on the ice, contributing significantly to his team's defensive efforts. With a ranking of 146th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, expectations are high for his draft prospects.

By the Numbers
  • 2025-26 Regular Season: 57 games, 2 goals, 10 assists, 12 points, +22 rating.
  • NHL Central Scouting Ranking: #146 overall among North American skaters.
Yes, But

Despite his strong stats, Steen's playoff performance showed a decrease in impact, finishing with a -3 rating in 10 games, which could raise concerns among scouts about his consistency under pressure.

State of Play
  • Steen established himself as a key component of the Tigers' defense throughout the regular season.
  • The upcoming NHL Draft represents a significant opportunity for Steen to showcase his capabilities to a larger audience.
What's Next

As the draft approaches, Steen's team will likely focus on his strengths, aiming to bolster his draft stock based on his recent performances and potential improvements.

Bottom Line

Riley Steen's combination of size and skill makes him a player to watch in the upcoming NHL Draft, but he must address the inconsistencies highlighted during the playoffs to solidify his professional prospects.