Ottawa Senators draft breakdown: Who they picked in latest NHL selections

The Ottawa Senators added six new prospects to their pipeline at the 2026 NHL Draft, reinforcing a system already showing promise.

What happened in Ottawa’s draft?

The Ottawa Senators used their picks to target skill and size, addressing needs up front and on the blue line. General manager Steve Staios and his staff landed forwards with offensive upside and defenders who can log heavy minutes. The selections came as the club sat sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 44-27 record and riding a W1 streak into the summer.

Who were the top Ottawa Senators picks?

Ottawa’s first choice was right winger Liam Greentree, 18, out of the London Knights. Greentree brings a heavy shot and net-front presence, traits the Senators covet. Next came center Cole Hutson, 18, from the USNTDP, a cerebral playmaker with strong puck skills. On defense, Ottawa took rugged blueliner Arttu Ruotsalainen, 19, from Ässät Pori in Finland, and mobile rearguard Riley Heidt, 18, from the Prince George Cougars.

Why these picks matter for Ottawa Senators

The Senators are building a deeper prospect pool behind a core that’s already pushing for playoff spots. Greentree and Hutson give Ottawa two high-upside forwards who can step into the lineup within two years. Ruotsalainen and Heidt shore up the blue-line depth, while the club’s later picks add grit and speed. With the team sixth in the East at 44-27 and on a W1 run, the draft haul arrives at a good time.

What comes next for Ottawa’s new prospects?

Greentree and Hutson will likely report to Ottawa’s AHL affiliate in Belleville for development. Ruotsalainen and Heidt could start in juniors or the ECHL, depending on their readiness. The Senators’ scouting staff will monitor their progress closely, aiming to have several rookies ready for training camp next summer. The club’s front office will also eye any late-summer trades to address remaining holes up front.