Ivar Stenberg NHL Draft rumor creates uncertainty for Chicago Blackhawks ahead of first-round pick decision

The Chicago Blackhawks are looking increasingly shaky heading into the 2026 National Hockey League Draft, as reports suggest Swedish winger Ivar Stenberg may not be available when they pick. The rumour has directly affected draft projections for the Blackhawks' first-round plan and their pursuit of offensive depth to complement Connor Bedard.

The debate has become heated with several mock drafts and insider reports going different ways, and teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs, San Jose Sharks and Vancouver Canucks all factor into how the top picks could go before Chicago is on the clock.

Chicago Blackhawks NHL Draft plans hinge on Ivar Stenberg projection

The question is, will the Swedish winger be available when the team picks fourth overall in the 2026 National Hockey League Draft? If Ivar Stenberg isn’t available early in the draft, the Blackhawks may need to look to some alternate forward prospects to help shore up their top-six forward group.

Now the Toronto Maple Leafs, San Jose Sharks, and Vancouver Canucks are in the mix, and it just got a whole lot more complicated. If any franchise has a decision to make involving Chicago, it could have direct implications on whether Ivar Stenberg falls to the Blackhawks or gets taken ahead of schedule.

The San Jose Sharks are also looking at options on defence like Chase Reid, but they may also go with the best player available as well.

The Vancouver Canucks are still the most unpredictable variable in the top four picks. An additional source of ambiguity is the possible intrigue of a forward Caleb Malhotra, where choosing between positional need and the value of talent could have a huge impact on the draft order.

This uncertainty directly impacts the Chicago Blackhawks’ long-term roster construction plans. The franchise has been constructing a team around Connor Bedard, emphasising elite wing support and offensive depth. Missing on Ivar Stenberg then would have the organization looking at trade-down options or turning to other high-upside forwards available later in the first round.

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