The World Juniors have come and gone and several 2026 draft-eligible prospects made lasting impressions on the biggest stage junior hockey has to offer.
From forwards Ivar Stenberg and Viggo Björck helping Sweden win its first gold medal since 2012, to defencemen Chase Reid (United States) and Alberts Smits (Latvia) becoming blueline pillars for their countries, the 2026 class had its fingerprints all over the tournament.
For TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button, the World Juniors also affirmed that Penn State forward Gavin McKenna remains the No. 1 prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft.
Questions have swirled around McKenna’s game all season long after he made the jump from the Western Hockey League to NCAA hockey. At Penn State…