Buffalo, N.Y. (WGR Sports Radio 550) – The 2026 NHL Draft kicked off Friday in Buffalo with the Toronto Maple Leafs selecting forward Gavin McKenna first overall out of Penn State University.
While it has been expected to see McKenna go first overall in the draft for several months, it's an honor he does not take lightly. He says he's finally living out his dream.
“It's a special moment, for sure," said McKenna during his introductory press conference with the Maple Leafs media. "This is my dream come true, to hug my family and walk up on the stage and see Justin Bieber. This isn't what I imagined when I was a young kid. It's so much better. And the fact that it's here, it's been special.
“Most of all, I'm proud of the journey, having gone through a lot on and off the ice.”
Toronto is the center of the hockey world, meaning a lot of pressure is already on McKenna even before strapping on his skates for a game. Despite that, he feels confident in himself, no matter the pressure.
“I've said it before, I think pressure is a privilege,” McKenna said. “When you go to a fan base like that and you do well, it's the best spot to be. It's the biggest market out there, so I'm confident in myself and I want to do well. Hopefully the fan base falls in love with me, and it's a good time.”
Gavin McKenna goes off the board as the first overall pick of Toronto in the 2026 NHL Draft
Gavin McKenna goes off the board as the first overall pick of Toronto in the 2026 NHL Draft
