Maple Leafs GM Chayka praises Gavin McKenna ahead of NHL Draft

Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka expressed strong support for top prospect Gavin McKenna during the NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo on June 7, 2026. Chayka highlighted the team's efforts to understand McKenna's character by visiting his hometown in Whitehorse, Yukon, where they spent time with his family. This interest in McKenna extends beyond his on-ice skills, as the franchise seeks a player who can handle the pressures of playing in Toronto. Following a disappointing season that saw them miss the playoffs and undergo significant changes in management, the Maple Leafs hope McKenna can fill a gap left by departing forward Mitch Marner and become a key contributor to their future success.

• 11:29 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs GM John Chayka Makes His Feelings Known on Gavin McKenna