Gavin McKenna projected as top rookie as Maple Leafs prepare for his debut

Gavin McKenna Toronto Maple Leafs NHL rookie Calder Trophy Macklin Celebrini

Toronto Maple Leafs first‑overall pick Gavin McKenna is being tipped by NHL prospects as the leading contender for the 2027 Calder Trophy as he heads into his rookie season. The Upper Deck‑hosted NHLPA Rookie Showcase highlighted McKenna and fellow prospect Cole Hutson as the front‑runners for the league’s top‑rookie award.

McKenna said he spent an intensive summer training with San Jose Sharks phenom Macklin Celebrini in Vancouver, describing the sessions as “crazy” and noting weeks with up to 17 hours on the ice. He added that the environment helped him improve and enjoy the process. The young forward joins a Maple Leafs roster featuring Auston Matthews, William Nylander and John Tavares, raising expectations that he will make an immediate impact in Toronto.

The hype surrounding McKenna follows his record‑setting WHL season, where he posted 129 points and a 54‑game point streak. As the Leafs' newest offensive weapon, his development and performance will be closely watched throughout the 2024‑25 NHL campaign.