Gavin McKenna taken by Toronto Maple Leafs with No. 1 overall in 2026 NHL Draft

The Toronto Maple Leafs won the 2026 NHL draft lottery and used the No. 1 overall pick to select 18‑year‑old winger Gavin McKenna from Whitehorse, Yukon. McKenna, the top‑ranked North American skater, praised the opportunity, saying he would be “pumped” to join a club with a “big, passionate fan base.” Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka confirmed the pick, noting McKenna’s work ethic and offensive talent.

Other first‑round prospects highlighted include Swedish left wing Ivar Stenberg (San Jose), centre Caleb Malhotra (Vancouver), defenseman Chase Reid (Chicago/Buffalo) and defenseman Alberts Smits (New York). Mock‑drafts from several analysts projected similar top‑five selections.

Off‑ice, Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin remains the centre of intense trade speculation. Sources report multiple teams – Minnesota, Florida, Vegas, Dallas and others – are in discussions, with Dallas emerging as a possible preferred destination. The Red Wings also field interest for top‑scorer Alex DeBrincat, with six clubs (Edmonton, Chicago, Toronto, New Jersey, Seattle, Buffalo) reportedly reaching out.

In related moves, the Chicago Blackhawks traded their No. 4 overall pick to the Buffalo Sabres for forward Bowen Byram, while the Boston Bruins, Boston College prospects, the Los Angeles Kings, and other clubs have released their mock‑draft predictions for the upcoming selections.