Maple Leafs likely to select Gavin McKenna first overall in NHL Draft
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 3:34 PM
Last updated Jun 4, 2026
Gavin McKenna is anticipated to be the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft after a standout season at Penn State and previous success with the Medicine Hat Tigers. Analyst Steven Ellis maintains McKenna's position at the top of mock drafts, highlighting his exceptional skills, particularly his puck-handling and game processing abilities. Concerns about his size are countered by comparisons to established NHL stars. As the draft approaches, many expect Toronto Maple Leafs to select McKenna, though discussions on other potential picks continue.
- •Gavin McKenna is projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
- •He excelled in the WHL and NCAA with Penn State.
- •Analysts highlight his exceptional skills and ability to handle pressure.
- •Concerns over his size compared to NHL stars like Patrick Kane.
- •Toronto holds the top pick and aims to select the best player.
- 3:34 PMYahoo Sports — NHL analyst explains how Gavin McKenna's pros outweigh cons for Maple Leafs draft pick
"McKenna is clearly a special talent coming out of Penn State.
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