Gavin McKenna, Predicted Top NHL Draft Pick, Now Facing Assault Charge

For an athlete to even be considered for a major draft, it takes years of dedication and extremely hard work. However, many feel like it is worth it when they finally get to turn pro. Now, one player who'd been considered a possible number one draft pick for the NHL has been charged with a crime that could derail his future.

What Gavin McKenna's Assault Charge Means — and What It Does Not

On February 4, 2026, ESPN reported that Penn State standout Gavin McKenna, is facing serious charges. The celebrated forward has been charged with first-degree felony aggravated assault, misdemeanor simple assault, and two summary counts of disorderly conduct. The charges stem from the allegation that McKenna struck a 21-year-old male in the face, resulting in facial injuries that were so severe that surgery was required. After being arraigned on February 4, McKenna was released on $20,000 bail and must report for a hearing on February 11.

The charges pose a serious threat to ending McKenna's promising NHL career before it begins. The reason for that is the fact that the maximum penalty for first-degree felony aggravated assault in Pennsylvania is 20 years in prison and/or a $25,000 fine.

Even if he doesn't receive a sentence that severe, his NHL future is far from certain at this point. After all, any significant prison time would likely make his anticipated draft spot disappear.

That said, McKenna is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, and several legal scenarios could allow him to reach the NHL in the coming months, even if convicted.

An article for The Law Offices of Joseph Lesniak, LLC outlined two factors that could allow McKenna to play in the NHL soon. One of those is the fact that being a first-time offender can lead to a light punishment. That is noteworthy because there is no indication that McKenna has faced other charges. Additionally, the website states that Pennsylvania law allows deferred sentences, probation, or counseling as punishment for the charges the athlete is facing.

Why Gavin McKenna Is Viewed as a Potential No. 1 Pick

On January 13, 2026, a Sports Illustrated article detailed why Gavin McKenna remained "the consensus No. 1" NHL draft pick despite a slower start to his current season. That article quoted NHL Central Scouting director Dan Marr describing what made McKenna likely to hear his name called first at the highly anticipated event.

“Gavin McKenna is an elite talent with exceptional hockey sense, quickness and maturity, which has allowed him to dictate the play and influence games at every level he’s played. He possesses a combination of unteachable skills and attributes that have been on record-setting display over the last couple of seasons and place him in a category of his own as the top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft.”

While he could have gone later in the draft, it seemed certain that McKenna would be picked early and reach the NHL quickly. Now, nothing about his future seems certain.