GMHL Draft 2026

Knights Add International Talent and High-End Prospects at the 2026 GMHL Draft

The Meaford Knights are excited to announce the results of the 2026 GMHL Draft, adding a strong mix of North American and international talent to the organization's growing prospect pool.

With selections spanning Canada, the United States, Sweden, Germany, Italy, Austria, Estonia, and beyond, the Knights focused on identifying players who fit the team's commitment to speed, skill, character, and long-term development.

"We were extremely pleased with how the draft unfolded," said Director of Scouting Dan Smith. "Our staff spent countless hours evaluating players from around the world, and we believe we've added a group that has the potential to make a significant impact on our program moving forward."

Round 1 – Drew Freer

Forward | Fort McMurray Oil Barons

The Knights opened the draft by selecting forward Drew Freer. A skilled offensive player with strong hockey sense, Freer brings junior experience and offensive upside to the organization.

Round 2 – Nathan Doran

Defenceman | Walkerton Capitals

Doran is a reliable two-way defenceman who competes hard in all three zones. His mobility and defensive awareness made him a priority target for the Knights.

Round 3 – Jannik Santa

Forward | EV Regensburg U20 (Germany)

Santa adds international skill and creativity to the draft class. The German forward possesses strong puck skills and offensive instincts.

Round 4 – Hugo Jättne

Forward | Nora HC (Sweden)

Jättne brings size, compete level, and a strong European development background. The Swedish forward has shown the ability to contribute in a variety of situations.

Round 5 – Grayson Burnagiel

Forward | Oshawa Generals

A highly competitive forward with a strong work ethic, Burnagiel showed very well at our Annual Prospects Camp , he adds another talented Canadian prospect to the Knights system. 

Round 6 – James Töpfer

Defenceman | Heerenveen Flyers

Töpfer is a mobile defenceman who plays with confidence and poise. His international experience provides another intriguing addition to the blue line.

Round 8 – Lauris Strazdins

Defenceman | Kalmar HC

Strazdins brings a physical presence and strong defensive foundation. He projects as a dependable two-way defender.

Round 9 – Alex Venturi

Forward | Varese, Italy

Venturi adds speed and offensive creativity to the draft class. The Italian forward has continued to develop against strong competition overseas.

Round 10 – Mio Kjorstad Oqvist

Forward | AIK J20

One of Sweden's premier development programs has helped shape Oqvist into a skilled offensive player with excellent hockey IQ and playmaking ability.

Round 10 (Ravens Pick) – Tristan Girard

Defenceman | Morrisburg Lions

Girard is a dependable defender who competes hard and plays with a team-first mentality.

Round 11 – Billy Varholla

Defenceman | Mt. Lebanon High School

Varholla brings size, reach, and a strong defensive presence to the organization. Another player who had a really strong showing at our annual prospects camp. 

Round 11 (Ravens Pick) – Etienne Josi

Defenceman | EHC Adelboden

Josi is another international addition who brings strong skating and defensive awareness.

Round 11 (Railers Pick) – Artjom Orlov

Forward | Narva HK

A skilled offensive player from Estonia, Orlov adds another exciting international element to the Knights' draft class.

Round 12 – Ben Vernon

Forward | Newmarket Renegades

Vernon is a hardworking forward who plays with energy and determination every shift. The Newmarket native has a ton of upside and showcased his abilities during our Prospects Camp in April. 

Round 12 (Railers Pick) – Dayne Cassim

Forward | Decatur Blaze

Cassim rounds out the draft class, bringing North American junior experience and offensive potential.

Building for the Future

The 2026 GMHL Draft reflects the continued growth of the Meaford Knights' scouting network and commitment to recruiting talent from across the globe. With players selected from multiple countries and development systems, the organization has added depth, skill, and character throughout the lineup.

The Knights would like to thank the entire scouting staff for their dedication throughout the season and congratulate all of our 2026 draft selections.

Welcome to the Knights family. We look forward to following your development and hopefully seeing you wear the black and red in Meaford in the near future. 🏒⚔️