Vancouver Canucks top draft target Gavin McKenna facing charges after serious off-ice incident




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Jan 31, 2026; State College, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions forward Gavin McKenna (72) looks to shoot the puck during the first period against the Michigan State Spartans at Beaver Stadium.

Photo credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images

The hockey world was shocked when news broke out of projected number one overall pick in next years NHL Entry Draft Gavin McKenna has been charged with aggravated assault, the Vancouver Canucks were likely to receive the number one pick and therefore have their sights set on McKenna.

“As of right now, the Vancouver Canucks hold the best odds to pick first overall, something they’ve never done in franchise history, with Patrik Allvin also having another first round pick through a trade with the Minnesota Wild back in December, which could net them an interesting prospect.”-Jaxon

Vancouver Canucks on high alert after Gavin McKenna news.

The Canadian Press through Sportsnet has reported on the incident involving McKenna. Despite the charges, details on the situation itself have yet to be released, and anything further would be speculation.

“We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment.”-John Hanna Penn State’s associate director of strategic communications

Mckenna tore up the WHL with the Medicine Hat Tigers before heading over to college hockey, to face a bigger challenge and to better prepare for pro hockey. McKenna has 11 goals and 21 assists in 24 games with the Nittany Lions.

Of interest to the #Canucks and hockey world as a whole

Mckenna has also played for Team Canada at the World Juniors the past two years, with this past tournament having him finish second in the tournament in points with 14.

Depending on how this matter goes it could affect the Canucks decision on who they take in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.

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Vancouver Canucks top draft target Gavin McKenna facing charges after serious off-ice incident

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