All articles tagged with #daxon rudolph
Buffalo selected right-shot defenseman Daxon Rudolph fourth overall in the 2026 NHL Draft after he posted 78 points in 68 WHL games for Prince Albert and led all WHL defensemen in the playoffs with 27 points; Rudolph will begin his college career at the University of Denver this fall.
With three first-round picks in the 2026 Draft, the Sharks are prioritizing defense. Insiders say Ivar Stenberg is a near-lock to go No. 2 and Daxon Rudolph is the top target for No. 9, though Keaton Verhoeff could slip into play if the top D prospects go early. Other ranked defensemen in consideration include Gavin McKenna, Chase Reid, Caleb Malhotra, Carson Carels, and Alberts Smits. San Jose could stay at No. 9 or maneuver up using 2 and 27 (plus future picks) since elite defensemen are scarce on the market.