Maple Leafs' McKenna will not play in NHL Prospect Challenge

September 11, 2026 - 3:20pm

Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna discusses getting up to speed for the NHL and what has surprised him about the level of play while speaking with the media at rookie camp.

Toronto Maple Leafs fans will have to wait a bit longer to see Gavin McKenna in action.

The No. 1 overall pick will not travel with the Maple Leafs to Gatineau, Que., to play in the 2026 NHL Prospect Challenge, Marlies head coach Steve Sullivan told reporters on Friday.

McKenna was named to the roster and participated in practice in Toronto on Friday, but will not get into any games.

The 18-year-old had 51 points (15 goals, 36 assists) in 35 games as a freshman at Penn State last season. He also added 14 points (four goals, 10 assists) in seven games at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship.

McKenna's next chance to play his first game as a Maple Leaf will come in Toronto's pre-season opener against the Montreal Canadiens on Sept. 19.