It was a big night for rising hockey stars around the world, but especially for three talented youngsters who featured in hockey rinks across Europe in recent Champions Hockey League seasons.
Of course, we are talking about wonderikd Ivar Stenberg, who won the CHL with Frölunda Gothenburg this season, Luleå Hockey's William Håkansson and Genève-Servette's Simas Ignatavicius, who played in the 2024/25 season of Europe's elite club ice hockey competition.
Here's a quick overview of who went where in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft!
Pick #2 - Ivar Stenberg
No surprises here as this hugely talented youngster was picked second overall by the San Jose Sharks, with the organisation highlighting his great hockey vision, playmaking ability and overall mature game.
Aside from lifting the European Trophy with Frölunda just a few months ago - a moment he said he would take with him his entire life - the 18-year-old gained valuable international experience in his 12 high-stakes CHL games against Europe's elite ice hockey organisations. We can't wait to see Ivar develop even more. Best of luck in the NHL!
Pick #40 - Simas Ignatavicius
Proving an intriguing prospect, this young American-born Lithuanian winger playing in Switzerland's National League was picked 8th in the 2nd round by the Florida Panthers and will look to secure a future overseas!
Pick #51 - William Håkansson
Håkansson, another high-profile Swede in the NHL Entry Draft, had to wait further into the second round to secure his future but it was worth the wait! The 18-year-old D-man, who played important games in the CHL with Luleå this past season, is off to 2026 Stanley Cup Champions the Carolina Hurricanes, after being picked 19th in the 2nd round.