In a thrilling development for hockey fans, twin brothers Liam and Markus Ruck have made history by becoming the highest-drafted twins in the NHL Draft since 1999. The siblings were selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins during the recently concluded 2026 NHL Draft, with Liam being picked 22nd overall in the first round and Markus following closely at 39th overall in the second round. This momentous achievement not only highlights their exceptional talents but also marks a significant milestone in their shared journey through the sport.
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Raised in Osoyoos, British Columbia, the Ruck brothers have cultivated their passion for hockey from a young age. Their parents, Nina and Derek Ruck, played an instrumental role in introducing them to the game, often taking them skating in local rinks. “They would hold us as we glided around the ice, and that’s when we first fell in love with the game,” recalls Markus, who is the elder by just eight minutes. Their shared experiences in Osoyoos have set the foundation for their impressive careers, which reached a new high with this draft selection.
Both brothers have established themselves as standout players in the Western Hockey League (WHL) while playing for the Medicine Hat Tigers. During the 2025-26 season, Markus excelled in playmaking, leading the team in assists with 87, while Liam made a name for himself as the top goal-scorer, netting 45 goals. Their complementary skills on the ice, paired with a strong bond off it, have been pivotal to their success. Each brother has expressed admiration for the other’s talents; Markus wishes he could emulate Liam’s scoring prowess, while Liam admires Markus’s ability to find open players under pressure.
The anticipation surrounding the NHL Draft was palpable for both twins, particularly for Liam, who hoped his brother would join him at the Penguins. “I think I started to feel more confident when Pittsburgh was back on the clock,” he later stated. Their dream came to fruition when Pittsburgh selected Markus, ensuring the twins remain together as they embark on this new chapter of their lives. “It worked out in a perfect way,” said Markus, reflecting on being drafted by a reputable organisation.
The emotional significance of the brothers’ simultaneous selection is not lost on their parents. Sharing the draft experience as a family was paramount for both Nina and Derek. “It was such a relief for all my family, especially my mom and dad, who really wanted us to go together,” Markus noted. Being united on and off the ice is essential for the family, highlighting the strong bond the twins share.
Following the draft, the Ruck brothers attended the Penguins’ annual prospect development camp, where they experienced being split into different practice groups for the first time. This arrangement was a departure from their usual routine, as the twins have only ever spent a few days apart during Liam’s recovery from a concussion. “We’ve only played against each other once, but Markus got the better of me that time,” Liam recalls, illustrating the competitive yet supportive nature of their relationship.
As the season approaches, the twins are preparing for their next steps, which include returning to Medicine Hat and subsequently heading to the University of North Dakota in 2027. The summer has been a whirlwind of excitement as they come to terms with their remarkable achievement. “Our family couldn’t be happier; we couldn’t be happier,” said Markus. “It was a dream come true to get drafted together.”
The journey of the Ruck brothers serves as an inspiring tale of dedication, teamwork, and familial support in the world of sport. With their profound connection and shared ambition, Liam and Markus are not just embarking on a professional hockey career but also reinforcing the idea that family can be a powerful force in achieving one’s dreams. As they lace up their skates for the Penguins, fans and supporters alike will be eagerly watching their progression in the NHL, hoping they continue to shine on the ice as they have throughout their lives.