NHL News
Gavin McKenna Just Delivered a Performance NHL Scouts Won’t Forget
With eight points in a single game, Penn State’s Gavin McKenna makes headlines as the top draft pick in the NHL draft.
If there was ever any doubt about who the consensus top draft pick in the upcoming NHL draft will be, Gavin McKenna just made a statement that his spot isn’t going to be taken from him without a fight. McKenna set a Penn State men’s hockey program record with eight points in Friday’s 11-4 win over Ohio State.
With a goal, five primary assists, and two secondary assists, he played one of the games of his life. One performance may not erase the questions about his personal off-ice issues after being charged for assault, but those who were at all concerned about his character will have to weigh that against his unbelievable ability to put up the kind of numbers that can do more than change a game, but the direction of a franchise.
This was the highest point total in NCAA Division I men’s hockey in decades.
His celebration after the goal was very Conor McGregor-esque, which caught some people off guard, considering he’s still facing some of the charges in his assault case. He was asked about it. “There’s a lot going on in my life…. but being out there on the rink, being with the guys, is my happiness.” He added, “I thought I’d show some personality.”
McKenna is now up to 41 points (12 goals, 29 assists) in 27 games. McKenna sits second overall in points per game in the NCAA as a draft-eligible freshman. For comparison, Macklin Celebrini, in his draft year, finished second in PPG.
As for the other picks in the NHL draft, Keaton Verhoeff and Carson Carels are still well-respected selections, and there’s time before draft day for these players to state their own case.
Next: 3 Keys for Team Canada to Beat USA in Gold Medal Game
Discover more from NHL Trade Talk
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
More News
