Top NHL Draft Prospect Gavin McKenna Charged with Felony Assault

Penn State hockey forward faces multiple charges after alleged incident near campus

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:55pm

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Gavin McKenna, a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft and a forward for the Penn State hockey team, has been charged with felony aggravated assault as well as misdemeanor assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct. The charges stem from an alleged incident that took place on the same day as a Penn State hockey game at Beaver Stadium.

Why it matters

McKenna was considered one of the top NHL draft prospects for 2026, and the charges could significantly impact his hockey career and draft status. The incident also raises concerns about player conduct and behavior, especially for high-profile student-athletes.

The details

According to court documents, the alleged incident occurred on Saturday, the same day Penn State played Michigan State in an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. McKenna, who turned 18 on December 20, is now awaiting a preliminary hearing, though no date has been set. Penn State athletics has acknowledged the charges but declined further comment, citing the ongoing legal matter.

  • The alleged incident took place on Saturday.
  • McKenna turned 18 on December 20.

The players

Gavin McKenna

A Penn State hockey forward and one of the top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft, who has been charged with felony aggravated assault as well as misdemeanor assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct.

Penn State Athletics

The university's athletic department, which has acknowledged the charges against McKenna but declined further comment, citing the ongoing legal matter.

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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.”

— John Hanna, Penn State athletics' associate director of strategic communications (The Athletic)

What’s next

The judge will set a date for McKenna's preliminary hearing, where the charges will be further addressed.

The takeaway

This incident raises concerns about the conduct and behavior of high-profile student-athletes, and the potential impact on their careers and the reputation of their institutions. It also highlights the need for continued scrutiny and accountability in college sports.