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Maple Leafs are saying all the right things about Gavin McKenna’s slow start

The hockey world may be starting to worry about Gavin McKenna, but the Maple Leafs locker room still believes in the rookie.

Published: Tuesday, 6 October 2026 at 12:37 AM
Maple Leafs are saying all the right things about Gavin McKenna’s slow start
Key Things to Know
  • Maple Leafs teammates and coaches are publicly supporting rookie Gavin McKenna despite a three-game pointless start.
  • Jim Hiller praised McKenna's composed, positive mindset as an important quality during his scoring drought.
  • Linemate William Nylander stated there is no pressure on the rookie, predicting his offense will arrive in waves.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna has remained pointless through his first three NHL games, but coaches and teammates are expressing strong confidence in him. Head coach Jim Hiller noted that the 18-year-old forward appears unflappable despite the slow start to his rookie season. Linemate William Nylander also dismissed any immediate pressure on McKenna, asserting that the young forward's scoring production will eventually arrive.

Editor In Leaf notes that McKenna's second-line partnership alongside Nylander and John Tavares has struggled offensively early in the season. The writer suggests McKenna might benefit from future line adjustments, potentially alongside Auston Matthews, while the organization requires him to earn higher opportunities.

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