The 2026 NHL Draft is set for June 30 and July 1 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, with several incoming freshmen from the University of Denver hockey team likely to be selected. The Pioneers have five players eligible for the draft, including four freshmen and one sophomore. The first round begins on Friday at 5 p.m. MT, and the remaining rounds continue Saturday starting at 9 a.m. MT, broadcast on ESPN, NHL Network, and Sportsnet. Notable players to watch include Daxon Rudolph and Ryan Lin, both rated highly by NHL Central Scouting.

By the Numbers
  • Daxon Rudolph is ranked fifth among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting.
  • Ryan Lin is ranked 16th, with Ben MacBeath at No. 22 and Mikey Berchild at No. 77.
State of Play
  • The last DU player chosen in the first round was Zeev Buium at No. 12 overall in 2024.
  • Denver has produced 145 drafted players historically, with at least one selected in every draft since 2002.
What's Next

As the draft approaches, Denver's prospects could significantly impact the program's future, especially if multiple players are selected in the first round, which has yet to happen in history. The program is poised to continue developing NHL talent, enhancing its reputation further.

Bottom Line

The 2026 NHL Draft presents a pivotal opportunity for the University of Denver hockey program to showcase its talent, potentially marking a historic moment with multiple first-round picks. This could reinforce the program's status as a premier developmental hub for NHL prospects.