Projected No.1 McKenna Shines in Penn State Debut

Gavin McKenna, a 17-year-old CHL star widely regarded as the likely No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, arrived at Penn State after the NCAA lifted its ban on CHL players following a 129-point WHL season. He opened his collegiate career by recording two primary assists in Penn State’s 6-3 win over Arizona State and later scored his first NCAA goal on a late third-period power play that sealed a comeback victory. McKenna also drew a costly penalty in that game and said he needs to better control his emotions. Coaches and NHL scouts praised his elite puck skills, playmaking, pace manipulation and hockey IQ while noting he will need to add strength and adjust to older, bigger NCAA competition. His debut weekend was nationally showcased on NHL Network and has amplified expectations for Penn State following last season’s Frozen Four run.