What Happened
Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna has opened his NHL career with zero points in three games. The 18-year-old, the first No. 1 draft pick to go scoreless through three games since Alexis Lafreniere in 2021, spoke Tuesday after an optional morning skate. McKenna said he hears about the slump in the Toronto media but remains confident, pointing to a similar slow start in college last year that he eventually worked through.
Key Details
- McKenna has zero points in three games to start his NHL career.
- He is the first No. 1 pick to go scoreless in his first three games since Alexis Lafreniere in 2021.
- Lafreniere needed seven games to record his first point.
- McKenna spoke Tuesday after an optional morning skate.
- Mats Sundin and teammates have discussed the outside criticism with him.
- Coach Jim Hiller said players should stay focused on the present.
What It Means
McKenna's early drought has drawn attention because of his draft status and the Toronto market. The source notes that he dealt with a difficult start in college last season before finding his game, suggesting patience may be warranted. The Maple Leafs and coach Jim Hiller are managing the external noise around the teenager as he adjusts to the NHL pace and spotlight.
What's Next
McKenna and the Maple Leafs will look for his first NHL point in upcoming games. The team has not announced any lineup changes related to his slump.