2027 NHL Draft: Landon DuPont and Brock England Headline Top Prospect Watch List

Landon DuPont enters the 2027 NHL draft cycle as the consensus top pick after averaging over 25 minutes per game in Everett's WHL championship run.

The 2027 NHL draft cycle officially commenced following the conclusion of the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and World Junior Showcase. Landon DuPont, a 5-foot-11 defenseman, enters the season as the consensus No. 1 overall pick. DuPont is transitioning to the University of Michigan (NCAA) after setting multiple scoring records in the WHL. During the previous season, he averaged more than 25 minutes of ice time per game while helping lead Everett to a WHL championship. Despite being shorter than the typical NHL defensive preference, his play-driving ability and pace control have earned him exceptional status within the draft class.

Brock England, a center for the Seattle Thunderbirds, is another high-end talent born on August 22, 2009. As one of the youngest eligible players, England relies on breakaway speed and a high-end shot release. He is noted for his ability to overpower defenders at the red line to create clean-cut breakaways. Joining him in the top tier of prospects is Alexis Joseph, a 6-foot-4, 205-pound center playing for Saint John in the QMJHL. Joseph is recognized for his size and net-driving ability, though scouts have noted inconsistent performances in recent international tournaments. He currently projects as a potential top-three selection if his skating and physical engagement improve.

NCAA and European Standouts

Sammy Nelson is set to play his draft season at Notre Dame as a 6-foot-2 all-situations center. Nelson, who stood out at the CHL-USA Prospects Challenge and the World Junior Showcase, is a scoring threat on the penalty kill due to his transition speed. His statistical profile currently projects him as a second-line NHL center. In Switzerland, 6-foot-4 forward Jonah Neuenschwander is competing for EHC Biel-Bienne in the Swiss NL. Neuenschwander debuted at the World Juniors as a 15-year-old and is noted for his puck protection and defensive details. He is viewed as a versatile middle-six or top-line 200-foot player, drawing comparisons to Nico Hischier.

Nazar Privalov represents a significant power-forward option at 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds. Playing for CSKA in Russia, Privalov recorded one of the best U17 seasons in MHL history last year. He is expected to receive KHL minutes this season, a rarity for draft-eligible prospects. However, his draft stock is complicated by a contract that does not expire until 2030. Also in Russia, right-handed left winger Sergei Skvortsov led Nizhny Novgorod in scoring during his 16-year-old season. Skvortsov maintained a point-per-game pace during the MHL playoffs and is noted for offensive instincts that make him a potential top-six NHL talent.

Defensive Specialists and OHL Impact

Milan Sundstrom of MoDo in Sweden is highlighted for having the most refined defensive game among the top-ranked centers. Standing with a significant physical stature, Sundstrom utilizes a heavy shot and the ability to strip pucks during defensive transitions. While his offensive ceiling is projected lower than some peers, his tools suggest an expedited timeline to the NHL as a shutdown, middle-six center. His projection could rise to a top-six role if his skating development follows his defensive progression.

Dima Zhilkin, an October 21, 2008, birthdate, is one of the older players in the class and plays for the Saginaw Spirit in the OHL. Standing 5-10, Zhilkin is described as a high-effort player with a quick release who thrives in high-traffic areas. He is a candidate for Canada’s World Junior team this winter and is projected as a potential top-five pick. Zhilkin is noted for a playing style that combines the skills of Zach Benson with the demeanor of Brad Marchand, consistently driving play despite physical contact. These nine players form the core of the initial watch list, with many expected to be selected in the top 20 next June.