Called Up: The Hockey Prospects Podcast

NHL Draft Tiers: Why The Top Of The 2026 NHL Draft Is So Crowded

Called Up: The Hockey Prospects Podcast

Show Notes

Called Up is going deep on the top of the 2026 NHL Draft and beyond this week as Chris and Cam discuss how the first round can be tiered. Chris and Cam think as many as six players belong in the serious discussions for teams at the very top of the draft. Find out who they are and why this class is so tricky.

Additionally, Chris and Cam share a little insight into list building, handicapping where they think some players will go by sharing if they'll go before or after a player in a similar tier.

After that, Chris and Cam get into a True or False style Called Up Challenge, go through Beyond Belief and a unique You Have To Pick One segment.

Lastly, this week's episode is dedicated to the memory of Johan Nilsson, the founder of EliteProspects. Johan passed away Wednesday after a lengthy battle with cancer. His influence and impact on the hockey world at large is immeasurable and he will be missed. Our thoughts are with all who knew and loved him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More from Called Up: The Hockey Prospects Podcast

Oct 23, 2026

We've got a jam-packed episode as Cam Robinson joins from the final leg of his trip to Sweden.

Oct 16, 2026

Chris is joined this week by college hockey writer Brad Schlossman while Cam is on assignment in Sweden. Peters and Schlossman reacted to the breaking news that Dave Hakstol was named the new head coach at Arizona State and other major topics in U.S. college hockey.

Oct 9, 2026

Chris and Cam are back this week with a look at the NHL Draft eligible players starting off their season hot and those that have not, plus when bad starts start impacting the draft board.

Oct 1, 2026

The 2026-27 NCAA men's hockey season begins Friday and the Called Up crew has you covered with an extensive preview looking at the top teams and top NHL prospects on college campuses.

Sep 25, 2026

This week's episode of Called Up centers around the recently-released early-season NHL Scout polls from Elite Prospects and TSN. Cam talks about his Cam's Consensus Rankings over at EP, while Chris shared some details about the TSN draft rankings he contributes to with Craig Button. There were some clear differences in the two lists, which made for some interesting conversation.

See all episodes →