How Gavin McKenna’s maturity has been a benefit for the Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna demonstrated his maturity by graciously accepting a move to the second power-play unit ahead of John Tavares' return from injury. The 18-year-old forward, who was selected first overall in 2026, has recorded 11 points in 17 games this season. Head coach Jim Hiller praised McKenna's rapid defensive growth without the puck while noting that the offense will run through him on the secondary power play.

Tavares is expected to return to Toronto's lineup on Saturday against the Montreal Canadiens after recovering from a lower-body injury suffered on October 15. The veteran is slated to skate on the wing alongside center Nick Paul and William Nylander, while Jack Roslovic remains on the top line with Auston Matthews and Easton Cowan carrying an active seven-game point streak.