Toronto holds the first overall pick for the first time since 2016 with less than a month remaining until the NHL Draft. Debate exists about the selection, but Gavin McKenna remains the projected number-one choice. McKenna, a Whitehorse, Yukon native, said Toronto is the biggest hockey market and that joining the Maple Leafs would be an honor. He described his game as offensive and smart, focused on making teammates better and bringing excitement. He led Penn State in scoring as an NCAA freshman with 15 goals, 36 assists, and 51 points in 35 games. He noted the NCAA is more defensive and physically demanding, with fewer opportunities to create plays compared with junior hockey.
"“It's the biggest hockey market in the world,” McKenna said. “So that'd be pretty cool. I'd be very honoured and I hear good things about Toronto. I've talked to some people and it sounds like an amazing place.”"
"“I think I can bring some excitement. I'm a pretty offensive player and pretty smart, someone who can make the players around me better,” McKenna said. “I'm confident in my abilities and I'm excited to hopefully make that jump starting next season.”"
"“The style of hockey is pretty different,” McKenna explained. “There's a lot more skill and more plays being made in junior. College guys are heavier, harder, faster, older. It's pretty defensive and hard to create in that league.”"
"McKenna endured a slower start to the season while adjusting to his first year in the NCAA. Despite that, McKenna still led Penn State University in scoring with 15 goals and 36 assists for 51 points in 35 games. His impressive freshman campaign ranked fifth in NCAA scoring, especially remarkable considering he was competing against older and more physically mature players."
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