Big draft moments often produce memorable photos, but Toronto may have come away with something even more valuable. Before playing a single NHL game, Gavin McKenna has already painted a picture of how he hopes his future unfolds in a Maple Leafs sweater.
McKenna’s comments immediately put the spotlight on what could become Toronto’s next elite offensive partnership.
Gavin McKenna Sees Auston Matthews as the Perfect On-Ice Match
Fresh off hearing his name called first overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs, McKenna did not hesitate when discussing Auston Matthews.
After pop star Justin Bieber announced Toronto’s historic selection at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, McKenna was asked about the possibility of eventually sharing the ice with the Maple Leafs captain.
Rather than assuming a top-line role, the young forward made it clear he understands what it would take to earn that opportunity. McKenna said, “My captain… He’s on the first line. I’ll have to prove myself to play with a player like that, but that’s my goal.”
He then explained why he believes the pairing could work, adding, “My game is a playmaker. He’s a shooter. I think we could complement each other pretty well.”
These comments have generated immediate excitement because the fit extends beyond reputation. McKenna has built his game around vision, creativity, and puck distribution, while Matthews has spent years establishing himself as one of hockey’s premier finishers.
With Jim Hiller now behind Toronto’s bench, many already expect the organization to explore that combination once McKenna settles into the NHL.
The Maple Leafs captain saw his 2025-26 season end early after suffering a Grade 3 MCL tear and a severe quad contusion during a knee-on-knee collision with Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas. Matthews underwent surgery on March 19 and missed the remainder of the season, while Toronto failed to recover and eventually missed the playoffs.
General manager John Chayka recently confirmed Matthews remains on schedule in his recovery and is expected to be fully available when training camp opens. This update makes McKenna’s comments even more intriguing because the organization expects its captain to begin the new season healthy.
Toronto’s latest first overall selection also arrives exactly ten years after Matthews was drafted first overall in the same building. During the draft broadcast, Matthews welcomed McKenna to the organization through a pre-recorded video message, creating a symbolic passing of the torch between the franchise cornerstone and its newest centerpiece.
“I know how exciting this is for you and your family, and what an incredible honor it is,” Matthews said. “Congratulations, we’re just as excited to have you join the Maple Leafs, and cannot wait to get started. You’re coming to a franchise with an amazing history and fanbase, and we’re all working to write the next great chapter together, and you’re going to be a very important part of that.”
McKenna enters the NHL carrying considerable expectations after producing 51 points in 35 NCAA games at Penn State. Early projections already place him on Toronto’s top line alongside Matthews to earn time on the first power-play unit.
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Whether that partnership develops immediately or over time, McKenna’s first public message left little room for doubt. His focus is not simply reaching the NHL; it is proving he belongs next to the player he now calls his captain.
