Gavin McKenna is, according to most analysts, expected to be selected first overall in the 2026 NHL Draft on Friday. The Toronto Maple Leafs hold the first overall pick. Now, McKenna has spoken candidly about the possibility of ending up in Toronto.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are currently going through some major changes. After a disappointing 2025–26 campaign, the organization fired both its head coach and general manager.
READ MORE: Fans react strongly to Maple Leafs’ draft lottery win
Maple Leafs draft lottery
Subsequently, the Maple Leafs hired the controversial John Chayka as their new general manager. Then, on June 17, they named Jim Hiller as their new head coach. On top of that, Toronto won the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery despite having just an 8.5 percent chance of doing so. As a result, Maple Leafs fans are now hoping to see top prospect Gavin McKenna wearing a Toronto jersey by October.
In an interview with Sportsnet’s Colby Armstrong, McKenna discussed his reaction to seeing Toronto win the draft lottery.
Gavin McKenna’s take on the Maple Leafs
”I was in Kelowna with one of my agents, Byron Ritchie. Pretty shocked, obviously. I didn’t even think the Maple Leafs were going to get it. It was crazy,” McKenna said.
Furthermore, McKenna also spoke about what it would mean to represent the Toronto Maple Leafs.
“I think it would be super cool. Being a Canadian kid and going to the biggest hockey market in the world. Obviously, if you’re not playing well, you’ll hear about it. But if you win a Cup there, or do well, it’s probably one of the best spots to be,” McKenna said in the interview.
Meanwhile, speculation continues to grow regarding where McKenna will begin his NHL career. Ultimately, time will tell where the highly touted prospect ends up playing next season.
You can watch the full interview below.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Gavin McKenna
