Runtso's Rise: NHL Draft Prospect

0:00It's April 22nd. I'm Cory with the story, and this is NHL News today, your AI-powered team report. Timofay Runso is making waves in the 2026 NHL draft class. This 6'2, 186 pound rice shot defenseman jumped five spots in the final NHL central scouting rankings after going, undrafted last year. Playing for the Victoria Royals in the Western Hockey League, he had a breakout rookie season with 44 points, including 11 goals, and 33 assists, leading all rookie defenseman in scorn for much of the year. Earlier this season, Runso leaped from the North American Hockey League, where he tally 27 points straight into a top-pairing role after. Victoria lost key players. The Royals missed the playoffs, but he handled heavy minutes, quarterback the power play, with 19 points there, and fired 100. 63 shots on goal, the most among team defenseman. He even suited up for Team West in the WHO Prospects game in February, drawing extra

1:04Scott attention. His background adds flavor. He grew up in Los Angeles as the son of Belarusian immigrants, with his dad Andre playing Pro Hockey in Belarus, France, and the U.S. before becoming a Hollywood stuntman. That led Runso to the Kane's development program, and last August, he committed to Miami University in the NCHC, right before their coaches first full. Season. Scouts love his offensive smarts, playmaking, heavy-rister, and versatility on special teams, where he kept penalties low at just 28 minutes. Defensively, he's still building physicality and rush coverage, but his two-way potential shines through awards like NHL, Central Rookie of the Year, and Victoria's top defenseman. Looking ahead, expect him in the early third to mid-fourth round, with a bright path of Miami alongside other prospects. If he keeps trending up in that tough conference, he could lock down a big NHL role down the line.