Finnish players made a strong appearance in the NHL draft’s first round, as three of them were selected during the round.

The first Finnish player selected was forward Oscar Hemming, chosen by the Columbus Blue Jackets with the 14th pick. Hemming played last season in the United States for Boston University.

Next among the Finns was Oliver Suvanto, as the Washington Capitals picked the Tappara forward with the 18th pick.

The third Finnish selection in the first round was Tappara defender Juho Piiparinen, who ended up with the Vegas Golden Knights with the 29th pick.

A Latvian player Alberts Smits was also selected high, as the New York Rangers used their fifth pick on him. Smits plays in the Liiga for Mikkelin Jukureit.

Having three Finns selected in the first round is rare. The last time a similar situation occurred was in 2019.

The first player selected in the entire draft was Canadian Gavin McKenna, chosen by the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The NHL draft continues on Saturday at 6 PM Finnish time, with the second round up next.

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Round 1 of the 2026 #NHLDraft has come to a close! 👏

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