San Jose Sharks 2026 NHL Draft Preview: Ivar Stenberg as Top Pick?

The San Jose Sharks are gearing up for the 2026 NHL Draft, and rumors are swirling around their top pick. According to Scott Wheeler, the Sharks are considering Ivar Stenberg, a left wing from Frölunda in the SHL. Wheeler believes the Sharks are intentionally keeping their plans under wraps, but Stenberg is a strong contender for the top spot. The Sharks' need for a top-pair defenseman is clear, but Mike Grier has stated that the best player available will be his focus at the draft. This could mean that Stenberg is the Sharks' top pick, or they may be planning to move back and target a defenseman. Wheeler mentions Carson Carels and Reid as potential options for the Sharks, but Stenberg is the clear front-runner. The Sharks' draft plans will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, and this is just the beginning of the speculation surrounding the 2026 NHL Draft.