Ivar Stenberg Eyes Maple Leafs as Top Prospect Climbs Draft Board

Ivar Stenberg is surging up the 2026 NHL Draft rankings and has made it clear that the Toronto Maple Leafs are his ideal destination. The Swedish forward, currently ranked in the top 10 by multiple outlets, has spent the season refining his game and preparing for the next level.

At 6'2" and 205 pounds, Stenberg brings a physical presence to the ice. He’s added nearly 15 pounds of muscle since the start of the season and has improved his skating mechanics. His shot, once described as “reliable but average,” now ranks in the 88th percentile among prospects, according to NHL Central Scouting. He’s also boosted his on-ice plus-minus by 12 points in the last 20 games.

“Ivar’s work ethic is off the charts,” said one European scout who has followed him closely. “He’s not flashy, but every time he touches the puck, it feels like he’s trying to do something smart.”

Stenberg said hearing his name called by the Maple Leafs would be “a dream.” The Maple Leafs have a history of drafting and developing high-character, two-way forwards, and Stenberg fits that mold. He’s played a 200-foot game all season, logging 22 minutes per night in the SHL and averaging 2.1 takeaways per game.

The Maple Leafs have a need for a top-six forward with defensive responsibility. Stenberg’s 57.3% Corsi-for in 5v5 situations this season shows he can control possession. He’s also killed 82% of penalties, a stat that has drawn attention from Toronto’s scouting staff.

Stenberg isn’t chasing comparisons to Auston Matthews or other household names. Instead, he focuses on players like William Nylander and Morgan Rielly, role models for how to blend skill with responsibility.

Family is a big part of his story. He’s the first in his family to play professionally, and he said their support has kept him grounded. “They’ve always been there for me,” he said. “It would mean everything to make them proud.”

With the draft set for June 21, Stenberg is expected to be selected in the first round. The Maple Leafs have the 12th overall pick and are rumored to be considering a forward-heavy approach. Stenberg is projected to go in the top 10 and could be a fit if Toronto moves up or stays put.

For a team that values dependability and depth, Stenberg checks all the boxes. He’s a smart, physical forward who can play in all situations. If the Maple Leafs choose him, it will be a statement about their vision for the future.