Gavin McKenna, widely expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, has made a groundbreaking decision that could reshape the development of future hockey stars. At 17 years old, McKenna has bypassed the traditional Canadian Hockey League (CHL) route, committing to play NCAA hockey at Penn State University with a reported NIL deal valued near $700,000.
This strategic choice has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, signaling a shift in how elite prospects approach their pre-professional careers. McKenna’s decision comes after an extraordinary season with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he scored 129 points in 56 games, yet opted for college hockey over returning to Canadian junior leagues.
Reasons Behind Choosing Penn State Over Junior Hockey
McKenna’s move marks a significant departure from the common path for top Canadian players, reflecting broader changes in hockey development. Up until recently, NCAA regulations had prevented players with CHL experience from competing at the Division I college level. However, a new NIL rule implemented last November has removed this barrier, allowing players like McKenna to pursue college hockey opportunities with endorsement earnings.
McKenna’s choice reflects more than financial incentives; it’s a calculated decision prioritizing development against older, seasoned opponents in the competitive Big Ten Conference—a setting that challenges young players physically and mentally. This environment is seen as an effective stepping stone toward professional readiness, mirroring the approaches of NHL stars like Auston Matthews and Macklin Celebrini who honed their skills in non-traditional development paths.
“Both options were great, but I just think going to college, being in such a great conference, it’ll really challenge me and prepare me,”
McKenna said.
Penn State’s official announcement celebrated McKenna’s commitment, marking him as the highest-rated recruit to opt for NCAA hockey this year and highlighting his status as the reigning WHL and CHL Player of the Year.
The Influence of a Legendary Agent on McKenna’s Path
Adding to the intrigue of McKenna’s journey is his partnership with renowned NHL agent Pat Brisson, who has a history of guiding top talents like Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and John Tavares to stardom. Alongside CAA agent Matt Williams, Brisson is shaping McKenna’s career with a focus on maximizing both development and future professional value.
Despite lucrative offers reportedly from other NCAA programs such as Michigan State, where NIL deals ranged from $200,000 to $300,000, McKenna chose Penn State based largely on the quality of competition and player growth opportunities in the Big Ten. This path offers him the chance to face older, stronger opposition that better simulates the demands of professional hockey than typical junior leagues.
Implications for McKenna’s NHL Prospects
The transition to the NHL appears nearly certain for McKenna, with expectations that he will be selected first overall in the 2026 Draft. His path positions him alongside a short list of wingers picked first, including Nail Yakupov, Alexis Lafreniere, and Juraj Slafkovsky. However, McKenna’s early buzz rivals that of franchise centers like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews, elevating hopes for his immediate impact at the NHL level.
While some fans and officials wished to see McKenna continue his dominant run in the CHL, Canadian hockey leaders are accepting his college commitment with understanding. Ontario Hockey League Commissioner Bryan Crawford has publicly acknowledged McKenna’s choice and indicated ongoing collaboration between McKenna’s representatives and junior hockey bodies.
Ultimately, McKenna’s decision may be a pivotal moment for hockey development, testing the new NCAA regulations’ influence and potentially allowing other top prospects to view college hockey as a viable alternative to Canada’s traditional junior leagues.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many teeth did Sidney Crosby lose?
A. Sidney Crosby lost two of his front teeth. Despite this, his impressive, one-handed goal made the Pittsburgh Penguins very happy. Crosby couldn’t comment because of his injury. His goal helped the team secure their 11th straight playoff spot.
Q. Did Sidney Crosby lose teeth?
A. Crosby broke his jaw and lost a few teeth, which meant he needed surgery on his jaw and a lot of dental treatment.
Q. What disease does Sidney Crosby have?
A. Crosby’s DNA was sent to the CDC for advanced testing. He did not play in the game while waiting for the test outcomes. The CDC confirmed he tested positive for mumps.