Gavin McKenna adjusts to Toronto following dinner with Auston Matthews
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 3:10 AM
Last updated Sep 13, 2026
Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Gavin McKenna is settling into his new surroundings after being selected first overall in the 2026 NHL Draft. The 18-year-old recently noted that Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews hosted him for dinner, a gesture the rookie characterized as a supportive welcome to the organization. During his time at training camp, McKenna has participated in practice sessions alongside the team's veteran players. He stated that the high hockey intelligence displayed by the professional roster has been the most notable aspect of his transition to the league. Practice observations from the team indicate that McKenna has demonstrated high shot velocity and technical skill during controlled drills with other prospects. The forward remains focused on continuing his adjustment to the team's style of play.
- •Gavin McKenna was the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
- •Auston Matthews hosted McKenna for dinner to help him acclimate to Toronto.
- •McKenna reported that practicing with veteran players revealed their high level of hockey intelligence.
- •Practice reports highlighted the rookie's shot accuracy and playmaking ability in 3-on-2 drills.
- 3:10 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs’ Gavin McKenna Shares Great Auston Matthews Anecdote
"Toronto Maple Leafs’ No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, Gavin McKenna, is already getting accustomed to life in Toronto.During a recent media availability, McKenna, 18, said he hasn’t done much in the downtown area yet, but has gone out for a few small dinners and spent time with some of the team’s […] The post Maple Leafs’ Gavin McKenna Shares Great Auston Matthews Anecdote appeared first on HEAVY.
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