Hidden Gems Unveiled: Which U20 Stars Are Poised to Explode in the 2026 NHL Draft?
Marcus Nordmark
is another player who started the season with an impressive showing at the
Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He showed the different sides of his game there, mixing
playmaking with scoring and proving he can rise to the occasion in big moments.
After a slow
start in U20 Nationell, both Marcus Nordmark and Djurgården’s junior team are
starting to find their stride. Nordmark has impressed with his improved vision,
producing 13 points in 8 games without often needing to play at full speed. To
his credit, the U20 league doesn’t ask for much more from a player projected to
go in the first round. The real test will be how his game carries over if he
gets a chance at the professional level.
Theodor Knights
(D), 2026 NHL Draft
Theodor Knights
is a big, team-first defenseman who takes pride in his play in the defensive
zone. He leans on his physical style to shut down opponents and is often tasked
with handling the other team’s top line. Over the past year, he’s also taken
steps forward with the puck, showing more confidence in moving play out of his
own end.
Knights earned a
chance with MoDo’s senior team during the preseason but has yet to make his
league debut. Even against tougher competition, he showed his defensive upside
with aggressive play in his own zone. His mix of skating ability and size could
push him high in the draft.
Alexander Command
(C), 2026 NHL Draft
Alexander Command
took major steps forward last season and was rewarded with a debut for the
Swedish national team in the final tournament of the year. In the tough
competition for spots, he was left off the roster for the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
I’d bet on him getting another chance with Sweden at the Five Nations in
November. With his reliable two-way game, he could be an asset as a third-line
center or even higher up the lineup.
Command currently
sits fourth in league scoring with an impressive seven goals and 15 points in
nine games. He’s a joy to watch in transition, using his smooth stride and
ability to glide through the neutral zone. Command also isn’t afraid to drive
to the dirty areas or throw a hit in the corners when the game calls for it. He
remains one of the most intriguing players still flying under the radar for the
wider audience.
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