Gavin McKenna, projected to be the number one pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, has announced his commitment to Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) this Tuesday. With 17 years old, McKenna is considered the most outstanding recruit in the history of NCAA college hockey. He made his decision after making final visits to Penn State and Michigan State last weekend.
NHL talent evaluators have projected McKenna, a 6-foot winger, as a star, similar to recent No. 1 picks Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini. An NHL executive who has observed McKenna extensively, has noted that the winger’s skill set is similar to that of Patrick Kane, a player McKenna idolized. McKenna accumulated 129 points (41 goals, 88 assists) in 56 games, including a 40-game point streak, for the Medicine Hat Tigers last season, leading his team to their first WHL title since 2007 and a Memorial Cup final against the London Knights. McKenna was the CHL Player of the Year in 2024, becoming the third youngest player to win the award, behind only Sidney Crosby and John Tavares. Originally from Whitehorse, Yukon, McKenna is a member of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation. McKenna’s commitment is a seismic move for college hockey, and another indicator of a new long-term trend: a rule change in November allowed CHL players to compete in the NCAA next season for the first time. Previously, CHL players were excluded due to NCAA amateurism rules. Penn State, which has been a Division I program since the 2012-13 season, has been the biggest beneficiary so far. The Nittany Lions also received the commitment of Jackson Smith, a native of Alberta, who was selected in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. Smith, 18, becomes Penn State’s first NHL first-round pick. According to sources, McKenna received an “extremely generous six-figure” NIL offer from Penn State as part of his recruitment, believed to be the largest in the history of college hockey. Penn State is coming off its first Frozen Four appearance, losing to Boston University. The Nittany Lions boast top-notch facilities and strong continuity; Guy Gadowsky has been the coach since their inaugural season in D1. Gadowsky’s son, Mac, will also be transferring to Penn State next season, which is another big get. Mac Gadowsky, a defenseman, was a Hobey Baker finalist for Army last season. Calgary Flames prospect Luke Misa has also committed to Penn State for next season.After two unforgettable seasons with the Medicine Hat Tigers, I am very excited to continue my hockey career at Penn State. I feel this is the next step in my development to reach my ultimate goal of playing in the NHL and I am excited to get to Happy Valley. I am very grateful for all the support I have received so far, especially to my family who has been with me every step of the way.
Gavin McKenna
