Gavin McKenna—considered by many analysts and experts to be the top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft—could be facing serious legal consequences. Following an alleged bar altercation, McKenna has been charged with several offenses. But hockey fans are now offering their own, often hilarious takes on the situation.
McKenna is widely expected to be drafted first overall in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft. Considered a generational talent, he is currently playing college hockey for Penn State University. This season, McKenna has recorded 32 points in 24 games.
READ MORE: Major update in the Gavin McKenna assault case
Could face up to 20 years in prison
On January 31, Penn State hosted an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium in front of 74,575 spectators. McKenna notched one goal and two assists in the 5–4 loss. After the game, the team and their families gathered at a restaurant, where the alleged assault is said to have occurred. McKenna is now facing charges of aggravated assault, misdemeanor simple assault, and two counts of disorderly conduct for harassment and fighting. These charges carry a maximum potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison. He is set to appear in court on February 11.
According to new reports, the alleged victim provoked McKenna by directing various insults at his mother, including calling her a “wh*re.” While McKenna could face significant punishment if convicted, many hockey fans are instead focusing on the humor of the situation. Social media is now full of comedic reactions.
Fans react to the Gavin McKenna case
“Is a Gavin McKenna vs. Jake Paul boxing fight too much for a man to ask for?” one fan wrote on X.
“If you’re a hockey fan who wants Gavin McKenna to not play in the NHL because he defended his mom from a guy who was actively insulting her… please go watch another sport. Badminton might be more your speed,” another added.
“Gavin McKenna chose prison over Vancouver,” a third joked.
“I’m still drafting this kid if I’m an NHL GM. He clearly knows how to throw a punch and stand up for his people,” a fourth fan said.
There will be more to this story, for sure.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Gavin McKenna
