The spotlight naturally falls on forward GavinMcKenna, one of the highest-profile freshmen in any sport in Penn State history and who is expected to be the first player chosen in the 2026 NHL Draft.
Despite his age, McKenna already demonstrating why he is considered a generational talent, who took home the David Branch Player of the Year Award after netting 129 points for the Medicine Hat Tigers on their way to their sixth Ed Chynoweth Cup.
McKenna described his game as built on patience and control.
Rather than simply adjusting to the NCAA’s pace, he manipulates it—slowing down or speeding up to create opportunities for teammates.
Coaches and players alike have marveled at how he makes difficult plays look effortless.
But McKenna recognizes his major issue for now and for the next level and that is the physical gap.
McKenna chose the NCAA route specifically for its shorter schedule (WHL plays 68 regular season games compared to the 33 in the NCAA), giving him more time in the gym.
“I’m not a big guy,” McKenna admitted, “so this is a chance to put on weight and get stronger.”
Off the ice, McKenna has blended seamlessly into the culture of Penn State.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.Teammates describe him as respectful, polite, and competitive in everything from practice to ping-pong tournaments.
He has also leaned on veterans like Aiden Fink and Jackson Smith for guidance as he prepares for his own NHL draft process.
While rumors of a family connection to Connor Bedard have been exaggerated, McKenna acknowledged he does have a connection with the former WHL prodigy and 2024 NHL Calder Memorial Trophy winner, he does text the NHL star for advice.
Most importantly, McKenna has bought into Penn State’s identity.
During his recruitment, McKenna emphasized he was coming to “enhance” what the team had already built, not change it.
“He’s just a normal guy in the locker room,” captain Dane Dowiak said, “but an unbelievable player.”
Penn State’s men’s hockey faces off against Arizona State in Tempe, Arizona on Friday, the puck drops at 10 PM (Eastern) on NHL Network.
