Penguins Target Adam Novotny in 2026 Draft as Detroit’s Compher Nears Historic PWHL Sibling Milestone

In a 24-hour span that saw no NHL games conclude, the league’s future and present collided in two compelling storylines: Pittsburgh’s calculated push for contention and Detroit’s bittersweet transition at center. With the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26 shaping up as a pivotal juncture for rebuilds and contenders alike, and veteran roles coming into sharper focus, the off-ice drama carried the weight of the rink.

Penguins’ Draft Strategy: From ‘Honest’ Grading to Novotny’s Power-Forward Fit

Pittsburgh’s general manager Kyle Dubas is under pressure to bridge the gap between the Penguins’ playoff misses and a return to relevance. The name most frequently mentioned in draft discussions is Adam Novotny, the 6-foot-1, 205-pound forward from the Peterborough Petes who notched 65 points (34 goals) in 58 OHL games last season.

Novotny’s appeal lies in his ability to play through adversity—both on the ice and in the scouting process. At the NHL Scouting Combine, he engaged in candid feedback sessions with Penguins evaluators, including reviews of “less-than-ideal clips” to test his composure. Dubas, who has emphasized “sustainable contention” as his mandate, sees Novotny as a potential cornerstone for a team needing a scoring punch below Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby’s successors. Comparisons to Penguins alumnus Jordan Staal highlight Novotny’s grit and penalty-box presence, though his development timeline will be critical.

The draft remains fluid, but with many contenders facing challenges, Novotny represents a low-risk, high-upside gamble for a franchise in transition.

Detroit’s JT Compher: Decline, Role Uncertainty, and a Historic Family First

Meanwhile, in Detroit, the Red Wings are grappling with the reality of a fractured core. Veteran center JT Compher, once a 48-point player in his NHL debut, has seen his production decline in recent seasons, culminating in an 11-goal, 28-point campaign last year. His recent struggles have been noted, though linemate Alex DeBrincat praised his “net-front presence” and hockey IQ.

Compher’s future hinges on the fate of captain Dylan Larkin, who has publicly demanded a trade. If Larkin departs, Compher could step into a more prominent role, but with his contract expiring in 2025-26, the Red Wings face a crossroads: rebuild around him or pivot to younger talent.

The personal stakes are significant. Next season, Compher will become the first sibling duo in NHL/PWHL history when his sister, Jesse Compher, joins Detroit’s fledgling PWHL franchise. This milestone adds context to a season where both siblings are navigating professional uncertainty. For JT, it’s a reminder that legacy and reinvention often walk hand in hand.

Looking Ahead: Summer Moves Will Define Fall

With the draft and free agency looming, these stories highlight the NHL’s dual focus on youth and adaptability. Pittsburgh’s gamble on Novotny could signal a shift toward a bruising, offensive-forward-heavy model. Detroit, meanwhile, must decide whether to double down on Compher or embrace a rebuild—while celebrating a historic family chapter.

As the Penguins and Red Wings enter their respective crossroads, one truth remains: in the NHL, the only constant is change—and the best teams are those that anticipate it.