Draft Drama: Top Defensemen Rise | New York Rangers News
Published: July 23, 2026
Duration: 1:29
The Rangers pulled off a surprise third-round steal with 18-year-old defenseman Danai Shaiikov, who’s already eyeing Michigan State—unless he rockets to the NHL. Meanwhile, McKenna’s the consensus No. 1 pick for Toronto, despite early rumors of a defenseman at the top. This draft’s loaded with elite defensemen—Rudolf, Smits, and Reid—who could all crack the top five. Smits, with World Junior and Olympic experience, might be the most NHL-ready, but don’t overlook Reid—he’s projected as a top defenseman in under two years and could be San Jose’s second-overall pick.
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