What happened: Willie Desjardins watched Gavin McKenna progress from a rookie into a WHL champion and CHL Player of the Year at Medicine Hat. Toronto selected the 18-year-old first overall in June.
Why it matters: McKenna enters 2026-27 as the centerpiece of Toronto's offseason reset. His production supports the expectations, while Desjardins views his graciousness as another asset for the club.
By the numbers: McKenna recorded 129 points in 56 WHL games in 2024-25, then added 38 points across 16 playoff games. He produced 51 points in 35 games at Penn State in 2025-26.
What to watch: Toronto's September training camp will show how quickly McKenna can translate that production and confidence to the NHL.