2026 NHL Draft Watch: Top 10 CHL Players Making an Impact Early
NHL teams are preparing for the upcoming draft season, and early performances from the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) are drawing attention. As the season picks up steam, several players have emerged as notable prospects. This article highlights the top 10 CHL players making a significant impact ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft.
Top 10 CHL Prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft
- J.P. Hurlbert (C, Kamloops Blazers, WHL)
Hurlbert is off to a remarkable start, scoring 24 points in just 11 games. He averaged a point per game last season with the USA Hockey National Team and is pacing toward an impressive 150 points this year. - Xavier Villeneuve (LHD, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL)
Standing at 5-foot-11, Villeneuve has accumulated 20 points in 12 games. His standout performance included a five-assist game against Newfoundland on October 10. - Yegor Shilov (C, Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL)
Shilov has recorded 19 points, including seven goals in ten games. He is expected to contribute significantly to the CHL roster in the upcoming challenges. - Nikita Klepov (RW, Saginaw Spirit, OHL)
Klepov has transitioned effectively to the OHL, notching 18 points in 11 games. He has impressed with his strong offensive presence following his time at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. - Alexei Vlasov (LW, Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL)
Despite being the smallest on this list at 5-foot-9, Vlasov has tallied 18 points in ten games. He is noted for his speed and determination on the ice. - Noah Kosick (C, Swift Current Broncos, WHL)
Kosick has shown significant improvement, scoring 17 points in 10 games compared to a lackluster previous season. His skillful playmaking positions him as a promising prospect. - Caleb Malhotra (C, Brantford Bulldogs, OHL)
Malhotra is on track for 110 points this season. Coming from a hockey family, his two-way game makes him a versatile asset for the Bulldogs. - Chase Reid (RHD, Soo Greyhounds, OHL)
Reid is having a standout season with a point-per-game average. He is recognized as a strong defensive prospect and a potential top-three defender in the draft. - Ethan Belchetz (LW, Windsor Spitfires, OHL)
At 6-foot-5 and 227 pounds, Belchetz is dominating on the ice. He has recorded 10 goals and 16 points, showcasing his scoring ability and physicality. - Parker Snell (G, Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL)
Snell boasts exceptional stats with a 5-1-0 record and a .922 save percentage. His skills as a goaltender are drawing considerable attention.
Conclusion
The early season performances of these players highlight their potential to secure their positions in the 2026 NHL Draft. Monitoring their progression will be crucial as the season continues.
