The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Penn State forward Gavin McKenna with the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. The announcement took place Friday night at KeyBank Center in Buffalo.
McKenna, an 18-year-old from Whitehorse, Yukon, has been widely considered the top prospect in the 2026 draft class for an extended period. He joins the Maple Leafs following an "abysmal" 2025-26 campaign that ultimately earned the team the top selection.
Last season at Penn State, McKenna recorded 51 points, including 15 goals and 36 assists, in 35 games. The Maple Leafs, under new general manager John Chayka, have been seeking to address needs including goaltending and defense, but opted to select McKenna, described as an "ultra-talented player."
Following McKenna, the San Jose Sharks chose Sweden's Ivar Stenberg with the second overall pick. The Vancouver Canucks then selected Caleb Malhotra, son of former NHL player and current Canucks coach Manny Malhotra, with the third pick.
McKenna is expected to make an impact quickly as the Maple Leafs aim to improve under new coach Jim Hiller. He has reportedly handled significant attention throughout his career, including off-ice distractions, while maintaining strong performance.