Oscar Hemming, a top contender in the 2026 NHL Draft, possesses the size, shot, and presence the New York Rangers need at the fifth overall pick. As one of the youngest and most promising wingers available, Hemming brings a strong upside, especially considering his recent transition to the NCAA with the Boston College Eagles. Although his initial stats of one goal and seven assists in 19 games are modest, they reflect the challenges of adapting midseason from European hockey. Hemming's impressive U18 performance, where he scored 63 points, highlights his potential, positioning him as a player to watch. The key question remains whether he aligns with the Rangers' more pressing positional needs.

By the Numbers
  • Hemming recorded 1 goal and 7 assists in 19 NCAA games with Boston College.
  • In his final U18 season in Finland, he amassed 63 points.
Yes, But

While Hemming has significant upside with a solid skill set, there are questions about whether he is the best choice for the Rangers given their current roster needs and potential positional depth available in the draft.

State of Play
  • Hemming is ranked 11th on the NHL Central Scouting Rankings for North American Skaters.
  • He is the youngest player in the NCAA this year and is adapting to North American style hockey.
What's Next

As the draft approaches, teams, including the Rangers, will evaluate whether Hemming's strengths outweigh the risks associated with his inexperience and whether he fits into their long-term strategy.

Bottom Line

Oscar Hemming's blend of size and skill makes him a compelling draft choice, but the Rangers must weigh his potential against their immediate roster needs and overall draft strategy.