Projected top NHL Draft pick Yukon’s Gavin McKenna charged with felony
Published 11:30 am Thursday, February 5, 2026
Whitehorse product and 2026 NHL Draft top prospect Gavin McKenna has been handed four charges, including felony aggravated assault in relation to an alleged incident at a bar on the Penn State University (PSU) campus.
In an official report from State College, Penn., police obtained by Evan Smith of WKPS Radio (PSU’s radio station), it stated that the 18-year-old has been charged with a felony aggravated assault charge as well as a misdemeanor simple assault, and two summary offences for disorderly conduct and harassment.
The police report is dated Jan. 31. As a felony, McKenna would face up to 20 years in jail.
According to a Penn State student blog, McKenna was out at a bar with his Nittany Lions teammates after the team’s outdoor game overtime against Michigan State. McKenna allegedly assaulted the unidentified victim, breaking their jaw.
“We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment,” the university said in a statement issued to ESPN.
McKenna has 11 goals and 21 assists in 24 games for PSU, so far this season. He committed to the school after three seasons with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL.
He also recently played for Canada at the World Junior Hockey Championships, winning a bronze medal.
In NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings, McKenna was listed as the top North American skater.