Wyatt Cullen Draft Profile Nashville Predators Select Moorhead Native 10th Overall
Minnesota added another first-round NHL Draft pick to its growing list of hockey stars when Wyatt Cullen was selected 10th overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2026 NHL Draft.
The Moorhead native entered the draft as one of the premier American prospects after an impressive season with the U.S. National Team Development Program. His elite puck skills, skating ability and offensive creativity made him one of the most dynamic forwards available.
Cullen now becomes the latest Minnesota player to hear his name called in the opening round while continuing a family legacy that is already well known throughout the hockey world.
Wyatt Cullen Quick Facts
| Hometown | Moorhead, Minnesota |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 2008 |
| Age | 17 |
| Position | Forward |
| Shoots | Left |
| Height | 6-foot-1 (185 cm) |
| Weight | 181 pounds (82 kg) |
| Current Team | U.S. National Team Development Program |
| College Commitment | University of Minnesota |
| NHL Team | Nashville Predators |
| Draft Position | 10th Overall (Round 1) |
| Player Type | Offensive Forward / Playmaker |
Growing Up in Moorhead
Wyatt Cullen’s hockey journey began in one of Minnesota’s most respected hockey communities.
Growing up in Moorhead, Cullen developed through the local youth hockey system before quickly establishing himself as one of the top players in his age group. His combination of skating, puck control and offensive instincts separated him from many of his peers at an early age.
During his Bantam years, Cullen produced eye-popping offensive numbers while helping Moorhead compete against many of the best youth programs in Minnesota.
His success eventually earned him opportunities with several elite AAA programs before making the jump to USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program.
Dominating Youth Hockey
Before joining the NTDP, Cullen was already considered one of Minnesota’s brightest young stars.
Some of his notable youth accomplishments include:
- More than 100 points during his Bantam AA season with Moorhead.
- Multiple appearances with Minnesota AAA programs.
- Success competing against the top players in North America.
- Invitations to national development camps.
His offensive production consistently ranked among the best players in his age group.
Developing with Team USA
Joining the U.S. National Team Development Program marked another major step in Cullen’s career.
The NTDP allows America’s top prospects to compete against NCAA schools, USHL teams and international competition while preparing for the NHL Draft.
During the 2025-26 season, Cullen continued to showcase why scouts viewed him as one of the country’s top offensive forwards.
His season included:
- 45 points in 40 games with the U.S. National U18 Team.
- Additional scoring production in the USHL.
- Nine points in five games at the IIHF U18 World Championship.
- Selection to the U18 World Championship All-Star Team.
Playing against elite competition every night helped prepare Cullen for the next level.
What Makes Wyatt Cullen Special?
There are plenty of talented players in every NHL Draft.
Few possess Cullen’s ability to create offense.
His greatest strengths include:
Elite Puck Skills
Cullen is incredibly difficult to defend one-on-one.
His ability to change direction without losing speed allows him to beat defenders in tight spaces while maintaining possession of the puck.
High-End Hockey IQ
He consistently anticipates plays before they develop.
Whether finding an open teammate or attacking a seam through the neutral zone, Cullen processes the game at an extremely high level.
Dynamic Skating
His skating allows him to accelerate quickly and escape pressure.
Combined with excellent edge work, he creates scoring opportunities that many players simply cannot.
Power Play Quarterback
Although a forward, Cullen frequently controlled offensive possessions on the power play.
His patience with the puck and ability to manipulate defenders created passing lanes and scoring chances throughout the season.
Scouting Report
NHL scouts consistently described Cullen as one of the most creative offensive players available in the 2026 Draft.
His ability to combine skating, deception and puck handling makes him dangerous every time he touches the puck.
Rather than relying strictly on speed, Cullen forces defenders into uncomfortable situations by changing pace and direction, opening passing lanes or attacking the middle of the ice.
His offensive ceiling is among the highest in the draft class, and continued physical development should make him an even more complete player.
A Minnesota Hockey Family
The Cullen name is already well known throughout Minnesota and the NHL.
Wyatt’s father, Matt Cullen, enjoyed a remarkable 21-season NHL career while winning three Stanley Cups.
Growing up around professional hockey has given Wyatt valuable experience and insight into what it takes to reach the NHL.
The family’s hockey background has undoubtedly helped shape his development, but Wyatt has earned his own reputation through years of outstanding play.
What’s Next?
Following the draft, Cullen remains committed to the University of Minnesota, where he is expected to continue his development against NCAA competition.
The Golden Gophers have produced countless NHL players, and Cullen appears to be another prospect capable of following that path.
The Nashville Predators will likely allow him time to develop at the collegiate level before competing for a professional roster spot.
If his progression continues, Predators fans could see one of Minnesota’s newest stars wearing gold and navy in the coming years.
Career Highlights
- Selected 10th overall in the 2026 NHL Draft.
- Drafted by the Nashville Predators.
- U18 World Championship All-Star Team selection.
- Starred with the U.S. National Team Development Program.
- Committed to the University of Minnesota.
- Ranked among the top American prospects by nearly every major scouting service.
Wyatt Cullen Statistics
2025-26 Season
| Team | League | GP | G | A | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. National U18 Team | NTDP | 40 | 16 | 29 | 45 |
| USNTDP Juniors | USHL | 15 | 6 | 10 | 16 |
| USA U18 | IIHF U18 World Championship | 5 | 3 | 6 | 9 |
Follow Wyatt Cullen’s Journey
Wyatt Cullen’s selection gives Minnesota another player to watch closely over the next several years.
From youth hockey in Moorhead to the U.S. National Team Development Program and now as a first-round NHL Draft pick, Cullen has already built an impressive hockey résumé.
His next chapter begins at the University of Minnesota before eventually pursuing his dream of playing in the National Hockey League.
Follow The Puck will continue following Wyatt Cullen’s development as he progresses through college hockey and toward his NHL debut.
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