Gavin McKenna, the highly touted prospect for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, is facing serious legal trouble. The 18-year-old Penn State University forward has been charged with felony aggravated assault, along with misdemeanor simple assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct, following an alleged incident on Saturday, January 31.
According to Pennsylvania court documents and reports, the charges stem from an altercation that occurred at a downtown bar in State College, PA, after Penn State's outdoor game against Michigan State. Sources indicate that the alleged incident resulted in the victim sustaining a broken jaw. The felony aggravated assault charge alone could carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison if McKenna is convicted.
Penn State Athletics has acknowledged the charges but declined to comment further, citing the ongoing legal matter. Attempts to reach McKenna's agent, Pat Brisson, have so far been unsuccessful.
McKenna, a native of Whitehorse, Yukon, is considered one of the top prospects for the upcoming NHL draft. Some scouts even project him as the potential first overall pick. Before joining Penn State, McKenna played three seasons with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the Western Hockey League (WHL). During the 2024-25 season, he was named both the WHL and Canadian Hockey League Player of the Year after amassing 41 goals and 88 assists for 129 points. He also led the Tigers to a WHL Championship, though they lost in the Memorial Cup final.
Prior to the NCAA, McKenna showcased his talent on the international stage, winning gold at the 2024 U-18 World Championship and earning a bronze medal at the 2026 World Junior Championship. He was also named the CHL and WHL Rookie of the Year in 2023-24.
In his freshman season at Penn State, McKenna has recorded 11 goals and 21 assists for 32 points in 24 games. Despite his strong performance, some scouts have noted areas for improvement in his game, particularly his off-puck play. Some analysts suggest that Ivar Stenberg has surpassed McKenna as the top prospect.
The legal proceedings will undoubtedly impact McKenna's draft stock and future in professional hockey. The NHL and its teams often take a cautious approach when considering players with pending legal issues. While McKenna possesses undeniable talent and potential, the severity of the charges and the potential consequences could make teams hesitant to invest a high draft pick in him.
It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold, but the charges against Gavin McKenna are a significant development that could alter the landscape of the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.