With the Philadelphia Flyers’ season officially over, focus turns to the 2026 NHL Draft after exit interviews. In 2025, the club selected Porter Martone sixth overall, who thrived at Michigan State before moving to the NHL. This year, their draft position will shift significantly, likely landing between the 20th and 21st picks overall. That gives the front office a clear window to target specific needs.
Given the Flyers’ depth on the wing and clear holes at center and on the power-play defense, the draft board starts to take shape. Through my season-long scouting, I’ve identified several prospects in that range who stand out as personal favorites. Let’s break down three players I’d love to see in Philadelphia, including one I’d race to the podium for and a wild card candidate.
**Jack Hextall, C, Youngstown (USHL), Michigan State Commit**
The Flyers have already seen success with a future Michigan State Spartan, and they could double down. Hextall, standing 6’0″, is a responsible, defensively reliable center. While not a flashy two-way player, he pairs strong defensive habits with promising offensive instincts. His game relies on deception and crisp passing, though he needs to sharpen his shot and pace. In the 20s, the Flyers won’t find a surefire top-line center, but Hextall offers developmental upside. This season, he posted 20 goals and 38 assists in 59 games for the Youngstown Phantoms. Early projections peg him as a middle-six pivot, and a year or two under Adam Nightingale at Michigan State could elevate his ceiling.
**Xavier Villenueve, LHD, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)**
The Flyers have long lacked a power-play quarterback, a weakness highlighted in 2025-26. Villenueve, a 5’11” left-shot defenseman, is the best option in the 20s. His game thrives offensively: quick puck movement, strong skating, and a solid shot. Defensively, he has work to do, but his offensive upside is undeniable. This season, he tallied 6 goals and 38 points in 37 games for the Armada. If he played with more physicality, he’d be a top-10 lock. He’s also familiar with Flyers prospect Spencer Gill, a former Armada teammate.
**No Doubt Player: JP Hurlbert, C/LW, Kamloops (WHL), Michigan Commit**
Every draft I have a “no doubt” player—someone you sprint to the podium for if available. Porter Martone was that in 2025; in 2026, it’s JP Hurlbert. A versatile forward who has played both center and left wing, Hurlbert is an elite offensive talent. In 68 games for the Kamloops Blazers, he notched 42 goals and 97 points. Despite his 6’0″ frame, he plays a surprisingly physical game. His defensive game and pace need refinement, but his offensive ceiling makes him a compelling target for a team picking in the 20s.
