Capitals 2026 Draft Target: Albert Smits

Smits also showcased his skills on the international circuit this season, scoring five points in five games, including one goal, at the 2026 World Junior Championships. A few months later, he represented Latvia at the 2026 Winter Olympics, scoring two points in four games.  

Smits projects as a top-four NHL defenseman and is expected to be selected in the first 10-15 picks. However, first-round predictions never go as planned, which means Smits could slide to Washington when they select 16th overall or even 18th. He should join Zemgus Girgensons (2012) as the only first-round selections in Latvia’s history. 

What Are the Experts Saying?

Smits has one more stop on his hockey tour before next month’s NHL draft. He is scheduled to skate for Team Latvia at the 2026 World Championships in Europe in mid-May for his third major international tournament of the season.

“Smits is a very fast riser this year, and he had an excellent season in two top men’s leagues,” NHL Center Scouting director of European scouting Jukka-Pekka Luorinen told NHL.com. “He played well for Latvia at the 2026 Winter Olympics and will now play in the men’s World Championships in Switzerland.” 

Confidence is the word most often repeated when experts talk about Smits’s game. THW’s Peter Barracchini praised his “great confidence and poise on the breakout as he’s a great passer.” Daily Faceoff’s Steven Ellis also complimented his offensive mindset. “His puck play is incredible, showing a level of poise and confidence that allows him to create high-quality chances.” Ellis said, adding, “His pure size gives him astonishing reach, and he has the mobility to make up for the times when he can’t just rely on his poke check.” 

With plenty of reps against high-end competition over the last calendar year, Smits has consistently improved his craft against older competition. That should benefit the Latvian defender as he completes his European hockey development and prepares to transition to North American hockey over the next few seasons.  

Smits’ Fit in Capitals Prospect Pool

There is an argument that Smits doesn’t fit Washington’s biggest need at the draft this summer. Management should be looking for a right-handed blueliner to pair with Cole Hutson. However, it is never a bad time to add a potential top-pairing defenseman with Olympic experience before he’s skated on NHL ice.

Smits would instantly become the Capitals’ top left-handed prospect in front of Leon Muggli and Aron Dahlqvist, while leaving Cam Allen and Ryan Chesley as the top right-handed options, barring any additional trades from the management team. 

The Capitals’ prospect pool is forward-heavy with players like Andrew Cristall, Terik Parascak, Lynden Lakovic, Eriks Mateiko, and others, meaning it won’t be shocking to see them add to the defensive side of the ledger next month. 

Should the Capitals Draft Smits? 

If general managers overthink the situation and Smits falls to Washington at 16th, the Capitals should sprint to the podium to select him. It is rare for a player with his international pedigree to be available at the draft. While that certainly doesn’t guarantee success, he is consistently receiving valuable feedback, which will help to improve his game for years to come.

However, if the cost to move up the board to select the Latvian defender is both first-round picks, Washington should look elsewhere unless they receive additional compensation in the swap. The Capitals have an opportunity to add two high-end prospects this summer and should keep both selections, as tempting as it might be to swing a trade for a top prospect like Smits.