Using their final two picks across the sixth and seventh rounds in the 2026 NHL Draft, the Nashville Predators selected defenseman Benjamin Cossette-Ayotte at pick No. 179 and center Charlie Puglisi at pick No. 202.
Previously, the Predators drafted Wyatt Cullen (No. 10), Tommy Bleyl (No. 31), Dmitri Borichev (No. 70) Jakub Floris (No. 118), Justin Graf (No. 118) and Philip Hemmyr (No. 138).
Cossette-Ayotte, 18, played 62 games with the Val-d'Or Foreurs, scoring four goals and 38 points. He was named to the QMJHL All-Rookie Team in the 2024-25 season after posting 24 points in 56 games, including an additional three points in five playoff games. The Quebec native stands at 6-foot-1, 187 pounds, controlling the right side of the blueline. He is both the third defenseman and rightie at position to be selected by the Predators at this year's draft.
He is a stay-at-home defenseman, preferring to hold back on the blueline over getting involved in the play. When involved, he is an efficient puck mover and positions well to prevent opposing breakouts. In terms of weaknesses, scouts note that consistency and foot speed may be an issue. They also note that when under pressure, he can seem out of place and can take a few seconds to process what's going on. However, with the right development, he can snap back into play and join Predators prospect Jacob Rombach as the go-to defensive defensemen.
Puglisi, 18, split the 2025-26 season with the Islanders Hockey Club Prep East (EHF 18U) and The Winchendon School (USHS-Prep). In the EHF 18U, he played 25 games, scoring 10 goals and 31 points. He ramped up his numbers once transitioning to the USHS-Prep, scoring 26 goals and 76 points in 35 games.
He is a strong two-way center who's built his playstyle around intelligence and a 200-foot game. He's shown potential in all three zones of the ice. While he isn't the most explosive offensive player, he demonstrated his skill through effective puck movement by preventing turnovers in dangerous spots. The biggest question lies at whether or not he'll develop into something for the Predators. He's seen as more of a developmental player, and if he is surrounded by the right pieces, he could be a solid depth player in the future.
President of Hockey Operations/General Manager Chris MacFarland opts for safer options with his last two picks of the draft, securing more defensive-minded prospects. With a pool full of goal scorers and playmakers, these two youngsters' neutral things out.
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