The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Penn State forward Gavin McKenna with the first pick in the NHL draft on Friday night.
McKenna’s Background
McKenna, 18, is from Whitehorse, Yukon, and has been a prolific scorer on both sides of the border. His selection validates the projections of the left winger being his age group’s top prospect more than two years ago.
McKenna’s selection was announced by longtime Leafs fan and Canadian-born international pop icon Justin Bieber. McKenna expressed his gratitude to his family, saying, “I got no words right now. This is nuts. Obviously I want to start by thanking my family. I love you guys. I wouldn’t be here without you guys.”
Reaction from the Team
Leafs captain Auston Matthews welcomed McKenna to the team with a video message, saying, “I know how exciting this is for you and your family and what an incredible honor it is. We’re just as excited to have you join the Maple Leafs and cannot wait to get started. You’re coming to a franchise with an amazing history and base, and we’re all working to write the next great chapter together. And you’re going to be a very important part of that.”
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
