Sportsvival is ramping up its draft coverage as NHL teams finalize their boards; below is a full scouting dossier on center Caleb Malhotra, one of the fastest‑rising forwards in the 2026 class, profiling how his OHL production, international showcases, and two‑way skillset shape a Top‑10 draft ceiling.
Caleb Malhotra, C, 6’2” 190 lbs
Birthdate: June 2, 2008
Birthplace: Ontario, Canada
Current club: Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
Lineage: Son of former NHL forward Manny Malhotra
Early Days
Malhotra grew up immersed in the game, learning from his father’s emphasis on detail and compete level. His development through Ontario minor hockey emphasized responsibility and play‑driving, traits that translated seamlessly into his OHL rookie campaign.
Physical Profile
Height / Weight: 6’2” / 190 lbs, already carrying pro‑ready frame with balance and strength.
Skating & Tools: Smooth stride with deceptive acceleration; strong edges allow him to cut back and protect the puck. His reach and frame make him difficult to knock off balance in traffic.
OHL Path
In the 2024-2025 season for the Chilliwack Chiefs, Malhotra had 26 points (8 G, 18 A) in 44 games. He quickly established himself as a reliable top‑six center, earning praise for his ability to dictate pace and drive possession. So far during the 2025-2026 season, Malhotra has 22 goals and 38 assists in 44 games for the Brantford Bulldogs.
On‑Ice Production & Impact
Two‑way profile: Trusted in defensive zone starts, wins faceoffs, and transitions quickly into offense.
Playmaking: Uses vision and anticipation to set up teammates; excels at reading defensive coverage.
Special teams: Already contributing as a penalty‑killer; showcased shorthanded scoring ability with a highlight‑reel breakaway goal at the CHL‑USA Prospects Challenge.
International Resume
Malhotra captained Team CHL at the CHL‑USA Prospects Challenge, where he was a play‑driver and emotional leader. His shorthanded goal in the comeback win underscored his ability to rise in high‑pressure moments.
Scouting Section
Positives
Elite hockey IQ; anticipates plays and dictates tempo.
Strong frame and puck protection skills.
Proven production in OHL rookie season and international showcases.
Leadership qualities, evident in captaincy roles.
Negatives
Top‑end speed is solid but not yet elite; separation gear could improve.
Needs to refine finishing consistency to maximize scoring upside.
Pro Comparison
Projects as a modern two‑way center in the mold of Bo Horvat, blending leadership, defensive reliability, and play‑driving instincts. Like Horvat, Malhotra may not be a pure offensive dynamo but profiles as a dependable pivot who can anchor a line and elevate teammates.
Sportsvival View – Draft Projection & Fit
Projection: Top‑10 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Malhotra’s OHL production, hockey IQ, and bloodlines elevate his draft ceiling; he’s proving to be the premier OHL forward in this class.
Key considerations: Monitor his sophomore OHL season for scoring growth, continued leadership impact, and whether his skating burst improves against older competition. Those factors will determine whether he settles as a high‑end second‑line center or grows into a bona fide top‑line pivot.