4 Pete Fry Clients Ranked in Final 2026 NHL Central Scouting Rankings

The official 2026 NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings for the NHL Draft have been released, and once again, Pete Fry Goalie Mindset clients are making their mark at the highest level.

This year, four goaltenders training within our Private Goalie Mindset Coaching program have earned recognition among the top North American goalies eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft:

• William Lacelle

• Dayton Kitchener

• Gavin Betts

• Rafael Courchesne

Being ranked by NHL Central Scouting is no small achievement. These rankings play a critical role in how NHL organizations evaluate talent leading up to the draft, with hundreds of top prospects competing for a limited number of opportunities.

To see multiple athletes from our program recognized at this level reflects more than ability. It speaks to the consistency, discipline, and mental strength required to perform when it matters most.

Each of these goaltenders has taken a unique path to this point. Here is a closer look at what sets them apart.

William Lacelle - Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)

William Lacelle has steadily established himself as one of the most composed and technically sound goaltenders in this draft class.

Ranked 6th among North American goalies, Lacelle has consistently proven why he belongs in the conversation with the top prospects.

Originally from Gatineau, QC, Lacelle put together an incredible 2025/26 season playing for Rimouski and Blainville-Boisbriand, finishing the regular season with a combined 27-17-0. He is currently leading the Armada on an incredible playoff run.

What separates Lacelle is his mental consistency. In high-pressure environments like the QMJHL, where momentum swings quickly, his ability to reset and stay locked in has been a defining trait.

This is exactly the kind of mindset NHL organizations prioritize. Not just stopping the first shot, but being ready for the next one immediately.

Dayton Kitchener - Rimouski Océanic (QMJHL)

Dayton Kitchener brings a powerful blend of size, athleticism, and upside.

At 6’3”, Kitchener fits the modern NHL profile for goaltenders. He is long, mobile, and capable of covering the net effectively while still reacting quickly to high-danger chances.

A native of Toronto, Kitchener’s development this season has been particularly impressive. Playing in the QMJHL, a league known for offensive firepower, he has faced high shot volumes and challenging situations, accelerating both his physical and mental growth.

The biggest evolution in his game has been his ability to stay composed after adversity, a key trait that separates good goalies from elite ones.

Gavin Betts - Kingston Frontenacs (OHL)

Gavin Betts is a fast, competitive goaltender whose game is built on quick reactions and staying engaged in every moment.

Playing in the highly competitive OHL, Betts has shown he can handle fast-paced play and high-skill opponents, posting a record of 21-18-1-1 this season.

Hailing from Toronto, Betts’ style is dynamic. He reads plays quickly and attacks the puck rather than sitting back. What stands out most is his confidence under pressure.

Goaltenders at this level are constantly tested mentally. Breakaways, odd-man rushes, and defensive breakdowns are part of the game. Betts has shown the ability to stay engaged and trust his instincts in these moments, which is critical for long-term success at the professional level.

Rafael Courchesne - Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)

Rafael Courchesne is a goaltender with strong physical tools and a rapidly developing all-around game. Standing at over 6’2”, the Longueuil, QC native has the size NHL teams covet, combined with the mobility needed in today’s game.

Courchesne’s progression this season has been defined by his growing confidence and ability to handle pressure situations.

He has continued to take meaningful steps forward in his development, gaining valuable experience and building consistency as the season progressed. His ability to stay composed in key moments has become increasingly noticeable as his role and responsibilities have grown.

That growing control, both physically and mentally, is exactly what scouts look for when projecting long-term potential.

What This Recognition Represents

Being included in the NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings is a reflection of the work these goaltenders have already put in. It represents the habits, preparation, and consistency required to perform at a high level over time.

But this is not a finish line.

The NHL Draft is one moment in a much longer journey. Whether a player is selected early, late, or not at all, what ultimately shapes their path is how they respond, adapt, and continue to develop after that moment.

The focus remains the same.

Show up, improve, and take the next step forward.

That approach is what gives athletes the best chance to keep progressing at every level of the game.

What Separates Goalies at the Highest Level

At the elite level, talent is a given.

Every goaltender competing for NHL opportunities is skilled, athletic, and capable of making high-end saves. The physical tools are no longer what separates players. What separates them is how they think.

The ability to reset after a goal.

The ability to stay composed in high-pressure moments.

The ability to trust their game when everything is on the line.

That is the difference.

And it is something that can be developed.

Having multiple goaltenders recognized in the NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings is something we are proud of, but more importantly, it reflects the standard these athletes continue to hold themselves to every day.

Learn more about our Private Goalie Mindset Coaching program and how to develop your mental edge.