Gavin McKenna expects jersey number change with Maple Leafs
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 6:42 PM
Last updated Jul 2, 2026
Gavin McKenna, the Maple Leafs' first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, indicated that he likely will not wear No. 72 on opening night, suggesting it will belong to veteran goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. McKenna acknowledged that his preferred numbers, 27 and 9, are retired. He aims to contribute to the team and win a Stanley Cup, reflecting his maturity as a player. Toronto's management values McKenna’s character as much as his talent, which they believe could make him a cornerstone player alongside Auston Matthews and William Nylander.
- •McKenna selected first overall in 2026 NHL Draft
- •Expects to change jersey number before opener
- •Values veteran presence over personal preference
- •Aimed to win a Stanley Cup with Toronto
- •Toronto sees McKenna as a potential cornerstone player
- 6:42 PMYahoo Sports — Gavin McKenna doubts he’ll wear No. 72 in Maple Leafs opener
"Gavin McKenna, who arrived in Toronto as the No. 1 overall pick in 2026 NHL Draft, expects his jersey number to change before opening night. Speaking to reporters Thursday, the Toronto Maple Leafs rookie suggested No. 72 will likely belong…
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