With the 2026 NHL Entry Draft right around the corner, join us for a look at three players with Champions Hockey League experience who could see themselves playing across the pond in the very near future.
These players could all be picked in the first round, so keep your eyes peeled this weekend!
Ivar Stenberg
We just have to start with this 18-year-old wonderkid! The Frölunda Gothenburg player lifted the European Trophy as a European Club Champion earlier this year and has been at the centre of attention all season long. He played 12 games across the 2025/26 CHL season, missing just one of Frölunda's games en-route to their fifth CHL title, and has consistently been displaying what scouts see in him: his vision, playmaking ability, dynamic offensive skill set and mature two-way game.
His success against professional competition at his age, along with standout performances representing Sweden on the international stage, has solidified his reputation as one of hockey's brightest young stars. As the younger brother of NHL prospect Otto Stenberg, who also had his share of CHL experience with Frölunda back in his time, Ivar will look to continue his family's hockey tradition while also preparing to carve out his own path as a top candidate for #1 pick in the Draft!
William Håkansson
Another high-profile young Swede looking to make the jump to the NHL is Luleå Hockey's William Håkansson. The 18-year-old D-man played eight games across the 2025/26 Champions Hockey League season, scoring and assisting, but most importantly racking up valuable minutes of elite European club ice hockey.
The left-shot has earned praise for his combination of mobility and defensive awareness while developing in Luleå's system but at 194 cm, it's his physical presence that really stands out. With Håkansson up for grabs, some of the very best clubs could come knocking as he looks to be a first-round pick, but let's see how his Draft turns out!
Simas Ignatavicius
Genève-Servette's Simas Ignatavicius is an intriguing prospect for the upcoming NHL Entry Draft. The American-born Lithuanian winger has drawn significant attention while playing professionally in Switzerland's National League, where his combination of size, skill and maturity has impressed NHL scouts.
He played a Champions Hockey League game for the 2023 CHL Champions back in 2024/25. Standing 190 cm tall, Ignatavicius is known for his powerful north-south game, quick release and ability to create offence both as a goal scorer and playmaker. He uses his frame effectively to win puck battles, drive to high-danger areas and contribute in all three zones. Some predictions see him picked in the first round, others later on, so let's see which team pulls the trigger on this young star!
Stay tuned to our social media channels to be the first to find out how all three did at the 2026 NHL Entry Draft or return to our web for a Draft review.