McKenna steps up, delivers at critical time in Maple Leafs win
Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna scored his first career game-winning goal in a 3-1 victory against the San Jose Sharks. The 18-year-old demonstrated poise and confidence, earning praise from team captain Auston Matthews.
Why it matters
McKenna is a high-profile young talent whose early performance is critical to the Maple Leafs' success in the 2026 NHL season.
Forward scores go-ahead goal against Sharks, wants 'to be a guy who is known for those big moments'
TORONTO -- If Gavin McKenna has proven one thing so far in the infancy of his NHL career, it is that he does not shy away from big moments.
In his first meeting against Ivar Stenberg , who was selected by the San Jose Sharks with the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, McKenna, the No. 1 pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs, delivered the go-ahead goal and eventually game-winner, the first of his career, in a 3-1 victory at Scotiabank Arena on Monday.
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