What was once a dream became reality this past weekend as four local hockey players heard their names called at the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.
After earning spots on the NHL Central Scouting final rankings earlier this year, players from Komoka and London turned their draft potential into NHL opportunities.
Leading the way was London’s Ryan Roobroeck, who was selected 35th overall in the second round by the Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks traded up two spots with the New Jersey Devils to secure the Niagara IceDogs forward, making him the highest-selected local player in this year’s draft.
Komoka’s Beckham Edwards was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the fifth round. The Sarnia Sting centre entered the draft after posting back-to-back 45-point seasons in the Ontario Hockey League, including 19 goals in 64 games this past season after a 25-goal rookie campaign.
Fellow Komoka product Jacob Vandeven also had his NHL dream realized, going to the Boston Bruins in the fifth round with the 157th overall pick. The defenceman had a standout season with the Komoka Kings, finishing third in team scoring with 32 points in 47 games while establishing himself as one of the GOHL’s top offensive blueliners. Vandeven was one of three GOHL players eligable in the 2026 draft.
London’s Eric Frossard rounded out the local selections, going 146th overall to the Anaheim Ducks. The Guelph Storm forward was ranked 68th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting heading into the draft.
The strong showing at this year’s NHL Draft highlights the continued development of elite hockey talent across the region, with four local players now taking the next step toward professional careers.
Written by: K. Milhomens
