Hurlbert emerges as top-tier prospect ahead of 2026 NHL Draft
With rankings placing him between No. 10 and No. 21, J.P. Hurlbert’s statistical dominance and technical proficiency have drawn attention from major outlets ahead of the June event in Buffalo.
The 2026 NHL Entry Draft is set to take place on June 26–27 at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, with the first round broadcast on ESPN, ESPN+, Sportsnet, and TVA Sports. As the event approaches, focus has intensified on J.P. Hurlbert, a Texas-born right-handed shot and the reigning Western Hockey League Rookie of the Year. Hurlbert, who is committed to the University of Michigan, has established himself as a likely first-round selection, with projections ranging from No. 10 to No. 21 across various scouting outlets.
Hurlbert’s recent performance in the WHL has been a primary driver of his draft stock. During the regular season, he recorded 42 goals and 55 assists for 97 points in 68 games, finishing fourth in the entire league’s scoring race. This statistical output followed a productive stint with the U.S. National Team Development Program and the Kamloops Blazers. NHL Central Scouting has ranked him as the No. 12 North American skater, while Smaht Scouting places him at No. 10 and Daily Faceoff at No. 21.
Technical analysis of Hurlbert’s game highlights a distinct advantage in his shooting mechanics. Matthew Zator of The Hockey Writers noted that Hurlbert utilises a “catch-and-release” style, allowing him to release the puck at high speed upon receiving a pass. This trait was further underscored in an exclusive interview with The Sporting News, where Hurlbert identified his shot as his standout quality. He stated that he has been refining this skill since age six, attributing his confidence to years of backyard practice that created specific muscle memory.
Eric Silverman, Director of Hockey Operations for Dallas Stars Elite, has observed Hurlbert’s development throughout his career. Silverman described the forward as “probably as good a pure goal scorer as there is in the age group,” emphasising his competitive drive and history of scoring at every level. Silverman noted that Hurlbert’s ability to read defensive layers and his spatial awareness complement his offensive instincts, qualities that contributed to his 48 goals and 40 assists during the 2023–24 season with Dallas Stars Elite’s 16U team.
Beyond the ice, Hurlbert’s connection to the University of Michigan runs deep, as he is a fourth-generation Wolverine and the sixth member of his family to attend the institution. Hurlbert expressed that representing the next wave of skilled players is a significant motivation for him. He described the prospect of being a first-round pick as a “dream come true,” noting that he has strived for this milestone since he was 10 years old. The Toronto Maple Leafs currently hold the No. 1 pick in the draft following the lottery results.
