NHL breakout candidates 2026-27: 6 young players primed for a big season

The NHL preseason is shrinking, but the excitement around incoming talent isn’t. With fewer exhibition games to build a case for a roster spot, every shift matters for young players trying to make a jump to the big league. As clubs finalize depth charts and coaches trim rosters, a handful of prospects stand out as likely to shape the early narratives of the 2026–27 season.

From high draft picks with immediate expectations to late bloomers who could quietly change a contender’s outlook, here are six players whose training-camp performances and early regular-season minutes deserve close attention.

Gavin McKenna — Toronto Maple Leafs rookie with top-pick upside

Selected at the top of the draft, Gavin McKenna arrives in Toronto with both skill and a roster situation that could let him grow without being asked to carry the team. The left wing blends puck skill, vision and NHL-level shot mechanics, and he’ll be evaluated on how quickly he adjusts to the speed and physicality of regular-season play.

How he fits in Toronto’s offense

• Line possibilities: Expect evaluation time with the club’s established stars — particularly John Tavares and William Nylander — though glimpses beside Auston Matthews or in a Matthews-adjacent role could come.
• What to look for: Playmaking under pressure, defensive reads in his own zone, and chemistry with veteran wingers and centers during limited preseason reps.
• Why it matters: Toronto’s depth up front reduces immediate media pressure, offering McKenna a better developmental runway than many past high picks.

Ivar Stenberg — San Jose Sharks’ dynamic young winger

As the second player taken in his draft class, Ivar Stenberg joins a Sharks club eager to convert prospect buzz into playoff momentum. Stenberg’s quick debut — including a pair of goals scored within half a minute in a rookie exhibition — highlighted his scoring instinct and acceleration.

Role and competition in San Jose

• Versatility: Can play both wings and could be slotted in multiple configurations as coaches find the right balance.
• Teammates to watch him with: Young centers Macklin Celebrini and Michael Misa, and proven wingers like Will Smith and Collin Graf, plus Igor Chernyshov in his second NHL season.
• Key preseason metrics: Shot quality on the rush, puck protection along the boards, and how quickly he adapts to line changes.

Cole Hutson — Washington Capitals defenseman ready to step into a bigger role

Cole Hutson arrives in Washington carrying a reputation tied to family lineage — his brother won the Calder Trophy — but also his own body of work. After a strong 14-game cameo following his sophomore year at Boston University, Hutson proved he can contribute offensively from the blue line.

Opportunity with John Carlson gone

• Offensive profile: Shows playmaking instincts from the point and a willingness to activate in the attack.
• What the Capitals need: With John Carlson no longer in the picture, Washington will look to Hutson to add supple puck movement and power-play help.
• Benchmarks to monitor: Transition passing accuracy, zone exits, and defensive decision-making in tight spaces.

Porter Martone — Philadelphia Flyers’ power-forward candidate

Porter Martone arrived after one season at Michigan State and made an immediate impact, producing offense in limited minutes over the course of the prior campaign. Built with a power-forward frame, Martone’s early season objective will be to prove he can sustain production through a full NHL schedule.

Why Martone could earn a top-six spot

• Physical edge: Uses size and reach to create space and win puck battles.
• Consistency test: Preseason reps will show if he can handle checks from the league’s larger defenders night after night.
• Coaching priorities: Earn a reliable role on a top scoring line by showing stamina, forecheck impact, and power-play compatibility.

Roman Kantserov and Anton Frondell — Chicago Blackhawks’ young scorers poised for bigger roles

The Blackhawks expect Roman Kantserov and Anton Frondell to help alleviate the offensive load on Connor Bedard and lift a club eager to end a long playoff drought. Both forwards have already shown they can produce in shorter stints and overseas competition, and an early-season absence from Bedard could open valuable top-line minutes.

Individual ceilings and immediate tests

• Anton Frondell: A high draft pick who turned heads last season with nine points in a dozen NHL games, showing scoring touch and adaptability to pro minutes.
• Roman Kantserov: A KHL veteran-level scorer, Kantserov posted 36 goals and 64 points in Russia, signaling an ability to finish at an advanced level.
• What to watch: How both players handle extended shifts against NHL competition, their chemistry with Bedard (if he’s in the lineup) or who fills in during his potential absence, and whether they can sustain the pace through the grind of back-to-backs.

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John Davis

John Davis is a sports journalist focused on the NBA, NFL, and major global championships. With seven years of live coverage, he breaks down performances and key strategies. His expertise gives you a clear view of every game and its impact.