Several players with Saskatchewan connections were chosen in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, held over the weekend. Among them was Regina Pats forward Zachary Lansard, who was selected in the second round.
Zachary Lansard Highlights Saskatchewan Draft Class
Lansard, who scored 28 goals and 45 assists in 68 games last season for the Pats, was taken 47th overall by the Vancouver Canucks. He was one of 12 players with ties to the province drafted over the two-day event.
Other notable picks included defenseman Cole Benson from Saskatoon, drafted in the fourth round by the Montreal Canadiens, and goaltender Liam Foster from Prince Albert, selected in the sixth round by the Edmonton Oilers.
WHL and SJHL Players Selected
The Western Hockey League contributed the majority of Saskatchewan-connected picks, with players from the Regina Pats, Saskatoon Blades, and Prince Albert Raiders all hearing their names called. Three players from the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League were also drafted, including forward Ethan Krahn of the Humboldt Broncos, taken in the seventh round by the Calgary Flames.
“It’s a dream come true,” Lansard said in a press release. “I’m proud to represent Saskatchewan and the Regina Pats organization.”
Impact on Local Hockey
The strong showing continues a trend of increasing NHL draft picks from the province. In 2025, nine Saskatchewan-connected players were selected. This year’s total of 12 marks a 33% increase year-over-year, according to league data.
“Saskatchewan continues to produce top-tier talent,” said WHL commissioner Ron Robison. “The development programs here are world-class.”
