Gavin McKenna drafted first overall by Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs won the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery and selected 18‑year‑old forward Gavin McKenna with the first‑overall pick. In an interview, McKenna said he felt lucky to join a team with a winning culture, praising the organization’s direction and looking forward to playing alongside veteran Auston Matthews and other top forwards.

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid later commented that McKenna would handle the media pressure in Toronto and benefit from the team’s support system. Toronto media personality Sid Seixeiro criticized McDavid’s remarks, arguing that the Oilers star does not understand the intensity of the Toronto market.