The Nashville Predators may not have won the draft lottery, but they certainly didn't lose it either. After the lottery draw on May 5, Nashville locked in the No. 10 overall pick—a spot that offers plenty of potential for a franchise looking to build on its young core. This will be the Predators' ninth top-10 selection in franchise history, and their first ever at this exact position.
Last year, Nashville struck gold at No. 5 overall by selecting center Brady Martin, their highest pick since 2013. Now, as the 2026 NHL Draft approaches (June 26-27 in Buffalo), the Predators have a chance to add another key piece to their future lineup. With the No. 10 pick, here are four players who could be wearing gold and blue next season.
Wyatt Cullen — A Playmaker with NHL Bloodlines
If you like skill and speed, Wyatt Cullen is your guy. This shifty winger from the U.S. National Team Development Program turned heads at the U-18 World Juniors, racking up nine points in just five games. One scout even called him the "star of the tournament," praising his ability to create chances that others simply can't see.
At 6-foot and 173 pounds, Cullen is a pass-first playmaker who thrives in tight spaces. He has a knack for finding narrow passing lanes and can finish when needed, though his real magic lies in setting up teammates. In 40 games with the USNTDP, he posted 16 goals and 29 assists, plus 16 points in 15 USHL contests. Oh, and there's a fun connection here: he's the son of former Predators center Matt Cullen. He's committed to the University of Minnesota for 2026-27.
Tynan Lawrence — A Two-Way Center with Grit
Centers are at a premium in this draft, and Tynan Lawrence might be the second-best available behind Caleb Malhotra. At one point, Lawrence was projected as a top-five pick thanks to his well-rounded game and work ethic. He tallied 71 points in 69 games over two USHL seasons with the Muskegon Lumberjacks before transitioning to Boston University.
His freshman year at BU was quieter—just seven points in 18 games—but scouts aren't worried. They see a tenacious, 200-foot player who does all the little things right. Lawrence may not light up the scoreboard every night, but his versatility and defensive awareness make him a potential No. 2 center down the road. Where he lands in the draft is anyone's guess, but once Malhotra is off the board, Lawrence won't be far behind.