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Sport: HockeyCategory: Match Previews

Gavin McKenna leads strong rookie class in NHL 2026-27

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 11, 2026, 12:00 PM

Last updated Aug 11, 2026

Gavin McKenna leads strong rookie class in NHL 2026-27
Summary

The 2026-27 NHL season will feature a strong rookie class, highlighted by Gavin McKenna of the Toronto Maple Leafs, the first overall pick. McKenna, a standout at Penn State with 15 goals and 51 points last season, is expected to take on an immediate role in Toronto. Ivan Stenberg, selected second overall by the San Jose Sharks, and Viggo Bjorck, who went eighth to the Winnipeg Jets, are also among the notable newcomers. Other promising rookies include Porter Martone of the Philadelphia Flyers and Anton Frondell of the Chicago Blackhawks. The league anticipates an exciting season as these players embark on their professional careers.

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Key Details
  • •Gavin McKenna was the No. 1 overall pick in 2026.
  • •McKenna scored 15 goals and 51 points in his last collegiate season.
  • •Ivan Stenberg was picked second overall by the Sharks.
  • •Viggo Bjorck signed an entry-level deal with the Jets.
  • •Porter Martone had a successful late-season with the Flyers.
Latest Updates
  • 12:00 PMCBS Sports — CBS 2026-27 Fantasy hockey rookie preview: Gavin McKenna leads a rookie class loaded with Fantasy upside
What they're saying
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A loaded rookie class features more than a dozen potential Calder contenders and plenty of Fantasy upside

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