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Maple Leafs Grab No. 1 Pick, Eye Top Defenseman

5/11/2026

Summary

Maple Leafs Secure

The Toronto Maple Leafs secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, a win that John Chayka and Mats Sundin say boosts the franchise and underscores the need for a No. 1-defenceman.
Analysts favor drafting winger Gavin McKenna over Ivar Stenberg and Caleb Malhotra.
Chayka’s 2024 trade of the seventh overall for Derek Stepan shows his willingness to move picks, prompting speculation the No. 1 pick could be exchanged for Robert Thomas and the 11th overall selection.

Summary

**Hurricanes Start 8-0**

The Carolina Hurricanes began the 2026 playoffs 8-0, first since 1985 Oilers, as Frederik Andersen posted a 1.12 GAA, .950 save percentage and two shutouts.
Mitch Marner, now with Vegas, scored two goals—including the Game 6 winner—against Utah and later a hat trick versus Anaheim.
GM Julien BriseBois must add a backup goalie and a top-six centre because unrestricted-free-agent Darren Raddysh earned $975 K this season and will demand a raise.

History

Historical Context

The 1985 Edmonton Oilers swept their first three playoff series, propelled by Wayne Gretzky and a draft that saved about $500,000; the 2026 Carolina Hurricanes began their postseason with a dominant start, recalling that early-round surge. Executives John Chayka and Julien BriseBois point to the Oilers’ 761-player draft list, of which only 53 were pursued, as a template for flexibility.

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Maple Leafs Secure

The Toronto Maple Leafs secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, a win that John Chayka and Mats Sundin say boosts the franchise and underscores the need for a No. 1-defenceman.
Analysts favor drafting winger Gavin McKenna over Ivar Stenberg and Caleb Malhotra.
Chayka’s 2024 trade of the seventh overall for Derek Stepan shows his willingness to move picks, prompting speculation the No. 1 pick could be exchanged for Robert Thomas and the 11th overall selection.

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