Projected No. 1 NHL Draft Pick Charged with Felony Assault

Penn State forward Gavin McKenna faces charges after incident on same day as outdoor game loss

Feb. 4, 2026 at 8:31pm

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Penn State forward Gavin McKenna, who was expected to be the top overall pick in the 2026 NHL draft, has been charged with first-degree felony aggravated assault, misdemeanor simple assault, and two summary counts of disorderly conduct. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on January 31, the same day that Penn State lost to Michigan State 5-4 in overtime during an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium.

Why it matters

As a highly touted NHL prospect, McKenna's legal troubles could jeopardize his professional hockey career and draft prospects. The incident also raises questions about player conduct and discipline in college sports, especially for elite athletes with lucrative NIL deals.

The details

According to the Pennsylvania Magisterial District Court, the charges against McKenna, an 18-year-old Canada native, are related to a fight that occurred on January 31. No date has been set for a preliminary hearing. Penn State has stated they are aware of the charges but will not comment further as it is an ongoing legal matter.

  • The incident referenced in the charges happened on January 31, 2026.
  • Penn State lost to Michigan State 5-4 in overtime during an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium on January 31, 2026.

The players

Gavin McKenna

An 18-year-old Canadian forward for the Penn State hockey team who was expected to be the top overall pick in the 2026 NHL draft.

Penn State

The university where Gavin McKenna plays hockey and where the alleged incident occurred.

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What they’re saying

“We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment.”

— Penn State

What’s next

No date has been set for a preliminary hearing in McKenna's case.

The takeaway

This incident raises serious concerns about the conduct and discipline of elite college athletes, especially those with lucrative NIL deals. The outcome of McKenna's legal case could have significant implications for his professional hockey prospects.