The 2026 NHL Draft is heating up with Caleb Malhotra emerging as the top center prospect, projected ahead of stars like Ivar Stenberg. With San Jose holding the second and 20th picks — and already stacked at center — they’re likely to trade up, turning that second pick into a major asset. Meanwhile, Gavin McKenna leads all prospects at 1, Stenberg at 3, and Carson Carels tops the defense at 4. The Sharks are also deep in pre-draft talks with players like Reid and Stenberg, while eyeing free agency for scoring wingers. On the ice, Tomas Hertl continues to shine, even supporting Joe Pavelski, as the league expands westward with the USHL launching on the coast. Big moves, big talent — hockey’s future is unfolding now. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/0a200177aa72afc0

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.