Ivar Stenberg Challenges Gavin McKenna for Top Spot in 2026 NHL Draft

The battle for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft is heating up as Ivar Stenberg continues to make a strong case against Gavin McKenna. While the Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to take McKenna, Stenberg’s standout performance at the 2026 IIHF World Championships has forced evaluators to take a closer look at the Swedish forward.

Stenberg, 18, has been one of the top performers for Sweden, tallying eight points (four goals, four assists) in seven games at the tournament. His highlight-reel goal against Slovakia on May 26 was the latest example of his growing confidence and skill on the international stage. The performance didn’t go unnoticed, Maple Leafs executive advisor Mats Sundin was in attendance and watched the young Swede shine.

TSN analyst Mike Johnson said on OverDrive that Stenberg could be more NHL-ready than McKenna next season. “He’s just a bit stronger physically,” Johnson said. “When you say better player, it’s tricky to say. McKenna will, I think, be the better offensive producer. How much are you going to value someone who maybe isn’t quite as productive but is more defensively reliable? I don’t know. But he’s been really good in this tournament, a tournament full of grown men professionals, and he’s been one of Sweden’s best players.”

Stenberg’s international success follows a strong 2025-26 season with Frolunda HC in the SweHL, where he recorded 33 points (11 goals, 22 assists) in 43 games. His two-way play and physicality make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for a reliable forward who can contribute in all situations.

McKenna remains the consensus top prospect entering the draft. The Canadian center has shown elite offensive vision and playmaking ability at the junior level, and the Maple Leafs’ rebuild hinges in part on selecting the right player with the first overall pick. GM John Chayka and Sundin will weigh both players’ strengths and how they fit into Toronto’s long-term plans.

Stenberg’s rise adds intrigue to a draft class that already features several top prospects. While McKenna is still the favorite, Stenberg’s performance has made the decision less clear-cut than many expected.

The 2026 NHL Draft is set for June 26-28 in Montreal. With just weeks to go, the Maple Leafs face a critical decision that could shape the future of the franchise.