A few realistic Center options for the Flyers at pick 21 in the 2026 NHL Draft include Alexander Command, Maddox Dagenais, Oliver Suvanto, even Tynan Lawrence or Yegor Shilov if they slide.
The 2026 center class is considered relatively weak at the very top compared to Wingers and Defensemen, with top projected Centers like Caleb Malhotra (often ranked top 5-10th overall) and Viggo Björck likely long gone by pick 21. Flyers mocks and discussions frequently target Centers or Defensemen here due to organizational needs for middle-six/down-the-middle depth.
Strong Fits
- Alexander Command (C, Örebro HK, Sweden, 6’1, 187 lbs, left shot): A fast-rising Swedish two-way center praised for hockey IQ, compete level, playmaking, physicality, and winning battles. Scouts project him as a potential second-line center with a safe floor (strong defensively, makes teammates better). He’s ranked as high as 13-15 overall in some lists (e.g., Craig Button, Steven Ellis) but more commonly in the mid-to-late teens/early 20’s. Flyers-specific chatter highlights him as a strong target at 21.
- Maddox Dagenais (C, Quebec Remparts, QMJHL, 6’4, 198 lbs): Big, physical power forward/center with scoring touch and edge. He’s a later first-round type (15-25 range in many rankings) who fits the Flyers’ history of drafting sizable, competitive forwards. Size and strength could make him a solid middle-six option.
- Oliver Suvanto (C, Tappara, Liiga/Finland, 6’3, 210+ lbs): A mature, towering two-way center already playing against men. Strong defensively with good off-puck play and physical presence; projects as a reliable middle-six guy with a high floor. Often ranked in the mid-teens to early 20’s.
Possible but Less Likely (Could Slide)
- Tynan Lawrence (C, Boston University/NCAA, 6’0, 183 lbs): Explosive, speedy two-way center with high-end tools. Ranked higher (often top 10-15 overall), so he may go earlier, but if he falls to the 20s, he’d be a big upside get.
- Yegor Shilov (C, Victoriaville, QMJHL, 6’0, 177 lbs): Versatile, offensive dual-threat who can produce. More of a mid-first possibility who could be available depending on how teams value centers vs. other positions.
The draft order has Flyers at 21 (after a solid 2025-26 season). Many mocks pair them with Centers or Defensemen at this spot, and public boards show a drop-off after the top handful of centers. Command stands out as one of the more discussed realistic targets for Philly right now due to his rise and fit.
Rankings fluctuate and teams often reach or let value slide based on need. The Flyers have done well historically in the early 20’s range. Expect Centers to be a priority theme around their pick.
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