Gavin McKenna Skates With Tavares and Nylander
The 2026 top draft pick joined Toronto's first camp practice on a line with Tavares and Nylander, but says his roster spot is still unearned.
Gavin McCurney — no, Gavin McKenna — skated in his first practice for the Maple Leafs on a line with John Tavares and William Nylander after the club opened training camp.
McKenna, the first overall pick at the 2026 NHL Draft, for the opening session. Asked about the pairing, he said: "It's nice to know the coaching staff trusts me and puts me with players like that. It was great being on the ice with them. I think they're both really smart players. John is a real workhorse. Willie is incredibly skilled. I think for me the main thing is just to play my own game. I'm not trying to change anything, just make plays and try to get to the net. I think the pucks will find me, and that'll be fun. I understand nothing is settled yet about my role. I'll have to earn my spot in the lineup."
And;. Where McKenna slots in once camp cuts begin remains open — by his own account, the roster spot is still his to win.
About this article
Prepared by the editorial team with the help of algorithms, based on the sources listed