Šmits rewrites Latvian hockey history with 5th pick in NHL draft

In the 2026 National Hockey League (NHL) draft, Latvian defenseman Alberts Šmits was selected with the high 5th overall pick. The 18-year-old set a new record – he is the highest-drafted Latvian in NHL history.

Šmits was one of the leaders of the Latvian national team at the 2026 World Championship. In eight games, he recorded four assists and helped the team achieve a historic sixth-place finish.

Approximately a week before the draft, TVNET+ spoke with Sandis Vilmanis, who plays in North America. Vilmanis shared his experience playing with Šmits, noting what he observed during a tournament in Switzerland and highlighting what makes Šmits stand out from other players.