League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Gavin McKenna expresses gratitude for being selected by Maple Leafs

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 2, 2026, 12:55 AM

Last updated Aug 2, 2026

Gavin McKenna expresses gratitude for being selected by Maple Leafs

Summary

Gavin McKenna was selected first overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL Draft Lottery on August 2, 2026. McKenna, who has signed his entry-level contract, expressed excitement about joining a team focused on winning rather than tanking. He aims to help the Maple Leafs return to the playoffs and pursue the Calder Trophy as the NHL's best rookie for the upcoming season. The Maple Leafs made significant changes following their missed playoff appearance, including a new general manager and roster adjustments.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Gavin McKenna was drafted first overall by the Maple Leafs on August 2, 2026.
•McKenna prefers joining a competitive team over a tanking one.
•He aims to help Toronto reach the playoffs and win the Calder Trophy.
•The Maple Leafs are undergoing significant changes after missing the playoffs.
•John Chayka is the new general manager, implementing roster alterations.

Latest Updates

12:55 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs Rookie Gavin McKenna Takes Shot At NHL Teams That Missed On Him

What they're saying

"
It wasn’t a popular result in lots of NHL circles, but nonetheless, it was what took place. The Toronto Maple Leafs won the NHL Draft Lottery, giving them the rights to select Penn State Nittany Lions forward Gavin McKenna with the first overall selection, which they ultimately did.The Maple Leafs had missed the Stanley Cup […] The post Maple Leafs Rookie Gavin McKenna Takes Shot At NHL Teams That Missed On Him appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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