A recent altercation involving Penn State forward Gavin McKenna has cast further doubt on his status as the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. The Chicago Blackhawks, who hold a potential lottery position, were already not interested in selecting him. Multiple reports indicate the team is even less likely to choose McKenna following the incident.
One of the week's major hockey stories outside the Super Bowl spotlight centered on Penn State forward Gavin McKenna, a projected top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft. McKenna, who previously earned a generational talent label during his time with the Medicine Hat Tigers, faced felony and misdemeanor charges after a violent altercation. The felony charge was later dropped, leaving him with three remaining charges for allegedly punching a 21-year-old man in the jaw.
Before the incident, McKenna was widely expected to be the No. 1 overall pick, though observers noted a more realistic assessment of his development after he transitioned to college hockey against older competition. His performance has shown improvement this season at the college level, complemented by strong offensive contributions at the World Junior Championships. However, the off-ice issue has introduced uncertainty about his draft position.
Other standout prospects, such as Ivar Stenberg, Keaton Verhoeff, and Tynan Lawrence, have strengthened their cases to potentially surpass McKenna. For the Chicago Blackhawks, the interest was minimal even prior to the allegations. Scott Powers of The Athletic first reported that the Blackhawks were largely uninterested in McKenna, a stance that has only solidified in the wake of the charges.
While much can change between now and the draft, McKenna faces significant hurdles to restore his stock and sway teams like the Blackhawks. His on-ice progress will be crucial, but resolving the legal matters remains paramount.
