What happened: Gavin McKenna, the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, has signed his entry-level contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The league announced the signing as official, locking the top prospect into his first NHL deal ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Why it matters: Toronto won the draft lottery in May to secure the No. 1 overall pick, and getting McKenna under contract converts that lottery win into a cornerstone piece for the franchise. A signed entry-level deal clears the way for him to compete for a roster spot in training camp rather than returning to junior as an unsigned pick.

What to watch: Watch for McKenna's first appearances in a Maple Leafs uniform at development camp and September's training camp, where he will look to earn an opening-night roster spot for 2026-27.