What Happened
Gavin McKenna, the first-overall draft pick, was held to limited ice time in Thursday's loss to the Buffalo Sabres and sat for more than half the game. Speaking Saturday at Toronto's morning skate, McKenna said the extended benching was a first for him. He noted he expected to sit during second-period penalty kills but did not return afterward. McKenna said he spoke with head coach Jim Hiller, who told him the decision was not related to his play.
Key Details
- McKenna entered Thursday's game on a four-game point streak.
- He said he understood he would not be used during Toronto's second-period penalty kills.
- McKenna said Hiller told him the benching had nothing to do with his play.
- McKenna said he trusts Hiller and the team and will play whatever role is asked.
- Several teammates offered McKenna encouragement after the benching.
What It Means
The benching came during a productive stretch for McKenna, who had points in four straight games. His comments indicate the decision was not a performance-based demotion, and that he remains aligned with Hiller's plans. How the ice time is distributed going forward will be worth monitoring.