The New York Rangers and New York Islanders face crucial decisions in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft, with predictions from The Post's Mollie Walker and Ethan Sears offering insight into potential selections.
Rangers' Potential Picks
The Rangers hold the No. 5 overall pick. According to Mollie Walker, if Chase Reid is unavailable, the team is expected to select Keaton Verhoeff, a defenseman from the University of North Dakota. Verhoeff was present at the 2026 NHL Draft Top Prospects Media Availability on June 25, 2026, in Buffalo.
At No. 26, Walker suggests the Rangers might target a big-bodied center. If Brooks Rogowski is still available, the team is predicted to make him their selection.
Islanders' First-Round Outlook
Ethan Sears projects that the Islanders, holding the No. 13 pick, will consider winger Ethan Belchetz. At 6-foot-5, Belchetz may not be the draft's top skater, but his offensive skills, hockey IQ, and physical presence make him a compelling option. Belchetz was seen playing at the 2026 NHL Draft Top Prospects Golf Outing on June 25, 2026, in Buffalo.
Belchetz, who committed to Michigan State and played for the Windsor Spitfires of the OHL last season, possesses a profile that aligns with the Islanders' system needs. However, Sears notes that the Islanders' general manager, Mathieu Darche, might explore trading the pick if a favorable opportunity arises.