The Vancouver Canucks might get the opportunity to secure the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. If this happens, it will be the second time to do it as the Vancouver Goldeneyes have already secured the first overall pick. 

After a disappointing 2025–26 NHL season, Vancouver finds itself among the lowest-ranked teams in the league, giving it one of the best odds to win the draft lottery. The Vancouver Canucks finished last (No. 10) in the Wild Card Division of the Western Conference. In 82 games, they had a disappointing 25-49-8 record with 58 points.

If the Canucks also win the lottery, Vancouver could end up with No. 1 picks in both leagues.

The Vancouver Canucks have never selected a first overall pick in their history. They have mostly used second or third overall draft picks instead.

The Canucks selected four players second overall: Daniel Sedin in 1999, Petr Nedvěd in 1990, Trevor Linden in 1988, and Dale Tallon in 1970.

They also picked four players third overall: Henrik Sedin in 1999, Dennis Ververgaert in 1973, Don Lever in 1972, and Jocelyn Guevremont in 1971.

This is not the first time a city’s NHL and PWHL teams have both had the first overall draft pick. New York achieved this in the 2025 Draft. The New York Islanders picked defenceman Matthew Schaefer first overall, and the New York Sirens also picked forward Kristýna Kaltounková first overall.

Who Could the Vancouver Canucks Select if They Win the No. 1 Pick?

There are many strong options for the first overall pick in the NHL. The forward Gavin McKenna is the leading favourite to go first.

He has everything needed to become a franchise-level talent. He can assist the same way he can score goals, making him a solid playmaker. Despite not having a size advantage or being swift, his mind-to-hand coordination is powerful.

Next, Ivar Stenberg is also a strong contender. Being 6'0", Stenberg is also good with his lower-body strength. He will be a promising option for carrying and holding pucks.

After having a poor season, picking the best players can surely bring some relief to the Canucks in future seasons.

As far as the Goldeneyes, they finished the PWHL season 9–3–4–14 and were eliminated on April 18.

They defeated Minnesota Frost 4–3 in overtime, while Seattle Torrent lost a shootout, and Goldeneyes secured the first overall pick in the 2026 draft.

In the first overall pick, they have an option of defender Caroline Harvey and Laila Edwards.  Forward Abbey Murphy and centre Tessa Janecke have both made a strong impact in their seasons as well. 

However, there is still uncertainty. Even with strong odds, the lottery remains unpredictable, and Vancouver will have to wait for the official draw to know its fate.

Canucks fans are watching closely, hoping that 2026 becomes the year their franchise finally gets the No. 1 pick. Maybe that new player brings new energy and fate to the franchise.

Read more at NHL Fan Central!

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason