One name above all, McKenna headlines 2026 NHL Draft

When his name was called on first, Gavin McKenna fulfilled a lifelong dream, becoming one of the few National Collegiate Athletic Association (N.C.A.A.) players in history to be chosen as the draft’s top selection.

Gavin McKenna became the center of attention at the 2026 National Hockey League (N.H.L.) Draft after being selected first overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs, making him the top pick among hundreds of eligible players.

The 18-year-old forward entered the draft as the No. 1 prospect following a standout freshman season at Penn State University, where he scored 51 points in 35 games, and a strong showing for Canada at the 2026 The International Ice Hockey Federation (I.I.F.F) World Junior Championship.

When pop star and longtime Toronto Maple Leafs fan, Justin Bieber, announced McKenna’s name, the young prospect shared an emotional moment with his family.

“Special moment for sure,” McKenna stated. 

“This is a dream come true. To hug my family and walk up on the stage, see Justin Bieber… This isn’t what I imagined when I was a young kid, it’s so much better.” he added.

For the Maple Leafs, choosing McKenna represents a major investment in the franchise’s future as many scouts projected him as a future N.H.L. superstar.

Beyond the excitement of draft night, McKenna paid tribute to the people and heritage that shaped his journey. 

“It’s all about my family and my Yukon heritage,” he said.

“Without them, without the people who supported me, I wouldn’t be here.”

McKenna, widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents, the Canadian forward is expected to play a key role in the team’s long-term plans as he begins his professional career in the N.H.L.