Swedish forward Ivar Stenberg has overtaken the top position in projections for the 2026 NHL Draft following his strong performance at the World Junior Championship. Scout Jason Bukala highlights Stenberg's professional production in Sweden's SHL and his complete skill set as reasons for the shift. Previously ranked behind Gavin McKenna and Keaton Verhoeff, Stenberg now leads the class.
Ivar Stenberg's ascent to the No. 1 overall prospect spot for the 2026 NHL Draft comes after a standout showing at the World Junior Championship, where he finished fifth in scoring with four goals and six assists in seven games. He posted a plus-5 rating and averaged 20 minutes of ice time per game, demonstrating reliability in high-pressure situations.
Playing professionally for Frolunda in Sweden's top league, the SHL, Stenberg has tallied 24 points in 25 games this season, on pace to challenge the record set by Daniel Sedin, who produced 42 points in 50 games during his draft year with the Vancouver Canucks. Bukala notes Stenberg's offensive upside, including his willingness to attack off the rush and seek high-danger scoring areas, with most shots originating from between the face-off dots in the opponent's zone.
Defensively, Stenberg competes across all zones, leveraging along the boards and handling face-offs in his own end during close games. His size is listed variably—at six feet by Frolunda and five-foot-11, 183 pounds by NHL Central Scouting—but his strength and competitiveness stand out. Bukala praises Stenberg as a relentless competitor with elite hockey sense who leads by example and thrives in intense scenarios.
Earlier in the season, Gavin McKenna held the top ranking, but Keaton Verhoeff surpassed him in late November. Stenberg's professional experience and World Juniors performance have now elevated him above both. While other prospects may score more at the NHL level, Bukala believes Stenberg's detailed approach ensures he will remain among the elite.
