Gavin McKenna: The 2026 NHL Draft Changes College Hockey

Gavin McKenna: The New Ice Hockey Promise and the Rise of Penn State

Expectation is at its peak. Gavin McKenna, at just 17 years old, is set to be the first pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. This fact will mark a before and after in the world of ice hockey, not only because of the young man’s talent, but also because of the radical changes that are taking place in the development of young prospects. McKenna, after a spectacular season with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League, where he accumulated 129 points in 56 games, has decided to take an unexpected turn. Instead of continuing in the Canadian league, he has chosen to join the men’s hockey program at Pennsylvania State University (Penn State). This decision, which surprised the hockey world, comes at a time of profound changes for NHL prospects. Last November, the NCAA modified its rules, allowing Canadian junior league players to play on Division I teams. McKenna thus becomes one of the first to make this leap, and undoubtedly, the most outstanding.

“It was a very difficult decision. There are many really good options. But my family and everyone in my circle decided that the best place for me next year is Penn State,” McKenna stated.

Gavin McKenna

McKenna’s arrival at Penn State coincides with the rise of college programs thanks to the economic opportunities offered by “Name, Image, and Likeness” (NIL). It is estimated that McKenna could receive around $700,000 in NIL deals.

Penn State coach Guy Gadowsky attributes the program’s success to McKenna’s vision. The player, with a pioneering mindset, seeks to make his mark on the history of college hockey. McKenna’s agent, Pat Brisson, who has represented other first overall NHL picks such as Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon, highlights McKenna’s uniqueness and his determination to achieve his goals. The decision by McKenna and other Canadian players to opt for the NCAA could mark a new era in talent development in hockey. The possibility of playing in the college league before being drafted by the NHL offers new opportunities for player growth. The change in NCAA rules allows CHL players to maintain their college eligibility, opening up a range of options. NHL teams could now use the NCAA as a preparatory league for Canadian players before making the jump to professionalism. The new NHL collective bargaining agreement, which will come into effect in the 2026-27 season, also introduces significant changes. 19-year-old players selected in the draft will have their rights retained until the third June 1st after being drafted. This gives teams more time to evaluate players and the possibility of sending them to the NCAA for additional development. McKenna’s decision to go to the NCAA could open new doors for college hockey and for players. The league is adapting to the new times, offering players more options for their development. The CHL is also evaluating how to improve the player experience, in order to remain a breeding ground for talent. WHL commissioner Dan Near acknowledges the importance of McKenna’s decision, but warns against exaggeration. The CHL remains a key development league, and McKenna’s decision is just one element in an ever-changing landscape. It is expected that McKenna, after his time in the NCAA, will go directly to the NHL, following in the footsteps of other great talents. His ability to control the game and create opportunities compares him to players of the stature of Patrick Kane and Nikita Kucherov. Coach Gadowsky highlights McKenna’s ability to analyze the game and his unique mentality. For Penn State, having McKenna is a big step forward, and fans are eager to see his impact on the team and in college hockey.