"In an almost poetic fashion and with just an 8.5 per cent chance, the Leafs won the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery after a woeful season, missing the playoffs for the first time in 10 years. Coincidentally, the last time Toronto had the pick was 10 years ago when the Leafs picked Auston Matthews in 2016. The pick, combined with the addition of new general manager John Chayka and Matt Sundin as Senior Executive Advisor of Hockey Operations, has re-ignited hope for Leafs fans."
"The Leafs are expected to draft Gavin McKenna, who is projected to go first overall after his breakout season at Penn State University. The 18-year-old winger put up 15 goals and 36 assists in the 2025-26 season. McKenna captivated hockey fans throughout the season, breaking Penn State records, increasing draft anticipation, and drawing media attention."
"The freshman broke the team's record for most points in a game on February 20, scoring one goal and seven assists in a win against Ohio State. McKenna finished the season setting multiple Penn State records. Before making his college debut, the Whitehorse native spent three successful seasons in the WHL playing for the Medicine Hat Tigers."
"McKenna has been breaking records his entire career and currently holds the CHL record for longest point streak at 54 consecutive games. The 170-pound freshman stands at 6-foot-tall but makes up for his size with grit, playmaking ability, and hockey I.Q. McKenna dominates his opponents by playing strategically under pressure and maintaining control of the play. He is patient in his play and doesn't rush moves. His precise stickhandling and shot, combined with his play-making mindset, set him apart from other players."
Toronto won the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery after a season that missed the playoffs for the first time in 10 years. The last time the Leafs held the first overall pick was when they selected Auston Matthews in 2016. With new general manager John Chayka and Matt Sundin serving as Senior Executive Advisor of Hockey Operations, expectations have risen. The team is expected to draft Gavin McKenna, projected to go first overall after a breakout season at Penn State. McKenna recorded 15 goals and 36 assists in 2025-26, broke Penn State records, and set a team record for most points in a game with one goal and seven assists against Ohio State. He also holds the CHL record for a 54-game point streak and is known for playmaking, stickhandling, patience, and hockey intelligence.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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