UPDATE: Per Brad Elliot Schlossman of the Grand Forks Herald, NHL scouts have been informed that Penn State forward, Gavin McKenna, is expected to play this weekend against Michigan.
Gavin McKenna returned to the ice Tuesday as No. 5 (NCAA Percentage Index – NPI) Penn State resumed practice ahead of a pivotal Big Ten road series against No. 2 (NPI) Michigan this weekend at Yost Ice Arena.
The freshman forward’s status has been closely watched following an incident that occurred late Saturday night, January 31, after Penn State’s outdoor game against Michigan State at Beaver Stadium. Any immediate concerns about McKenna’s availability appeared to ease when the Whitehorse, Yukon native practiced with his teammates at Pegula Ice Arena, a positive sign as the Nittany Lions prepare for a series with significant conference and NCAA tournament seeding implications.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.Penn State’s official stance on the matter has not yet been made public. Head coach Guy Gadowsky is expected to address the situation during his weekly media availability on Wednesday, when any potential internal discipline or impact on McKenna’s playing status may be clarified.
McKenna was arraigned last week following the alleged altercation outside Doggie’s Pub in downtown State College. According to police, McKenna is accused of punching another male twice in the face during the confrontation, resulting in multiple jaw fractures that later required corrective surgery.
For now, McKenna’s participation in practice suggests he remains with the team as Penn State prepares for one of its most consequential weekends of the season.
