The Ottawa Senators closed out the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft by targeting size and speed.
That idea turned into Jaxon Cover of the London Knights.
Cover is a story of a late bloomer. The 18-year-old didn’t start playing hockey till about the age of 13. About five years later, he’s a first-round pick. NHL Central Scouting had him ranked as the 29th North American Skater following an impressive showing in London.
Last season, he scored 20 goals and 52 points in 67 games. While those are not typically mind-boggling numbers, even for the OHL, they are solid. They are so solid, in fact, that Cover is committed to Penn State in the NCAA next season.
At 6’1” and 185 pounds, Cover has plenty of room to continue growing. He could become a physical forward who might just become a 20-goal scorer in the NHL down the line.
Elite Prospects described him as good along the half-wall and can get behind the goal line. That sounds like a good fit for someone in the bumper spot on the power play.
For the Senators, this pick is a bit of a reach. But Cover does have room to grow his skills. Playing in the NCAA should help him hone his craft. While the ETA on Cover should be at least two more years, the Sens can afford to wait.
The organization’s moves this week have allowed it to take a flyer on a player that may be rough around the edges now but should have the makings of an under-the-radar star that many might not have seen coming.
The Senators came away with two solid forward prospects, players who should fit in nicely as some veteran stars begin to age out in a couple of seasons.
Jaxon Cover was a great way to cap off what was certainly an eventful first round of the 2026 NHL Draft.
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