![Gavin McKenna Expresses Honor at Potential Maple Leafs First Overall Pick]](https://i1.wp.com/thehockeywriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Gavin-McKenna-Penn-State-5-scaled.jpg?ssl=1 "Gavin McKenna Expresses Honor at Potential Maple Leafs First Overall Pick]")
Gavin McKenna Expresses Honor at Potential Maple Leafs First Overall Pick]
As the projected first overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft, Gavin McKenna addressed the media landscape of Toronto during a recent appearance on TSN’s panel discussion.
The Penn State Nittany Lions forward acknowledged the significance of potentially joining the Maple Leafs in what would be a landmark selection for the franchise. “Obviously, it’s the biggest hockey market in the world, so that’d be pretty cool,” McKenna said. “I’d be very honoured. I hear good things about Toronto. I’ve talked to some people and it sounds like an amazing place.”
Maple Leafs Still Have Decisions to Make
Despite McKenna’s receptive comments, there remains uncertainty about whether the Maple Leafs will actually use their first overall selection. Recent speculation from The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun suggests the organization might consider trading the pick, though such a move appears unlikely.
Even if Toronto decides to keep the selection, the competition for the draft pick remains active. The debate between McKenna and Ivar Stenberg continues to gain traction, particularly following Stenberg’s strong performance at the World Championships with Sweden.
Regardless of how the draft lottery unfolds, McKenna’s composed handling of media inquiries suggests he may be well-prepared for the intense scrutiny that comes with being selected first overall by the Maple Leafs.