Buffalo will host the first round of the 2026 NHL Entry Draft on June 26, Friday night at KeyBank Center. The event starts at 7 p.m. ET and airs on ESPN, Sportsnet, and TVA Sports.
Several teams have traded first round picks in recent days as they adjust their plans. The Buffalo Sabres moved up to the fourth overall selection by sending defenseman Bowen Byram and forward Jordan Greenway to the Chicago Blackhawks. The Ottawa Senators added the ninth overall pick through a deal with the San Jose Sharks. The St. Louis Blues sent forward Jordan Kyrou to the Washington Capitals and received the 16th overall pick along with other assets in return.
These moves reflect teams balancing immediate roster needs with future draft selections. The draft order has shifted for multiple clubs, including the Blackhawks, Senators, and Blues. Toronto holds the top pick, while other teams with multiple selections or new assets will have more options when the first round begins.
The changes come as general managers finalize preparations before selections start. Round 2 follows on Saturday.