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Top NHL Prospect Charged With Assault After Outdoor Game
Penn State hockey star Gavin McKenna faces felony aggravated assault charges following an alleged downtown incident.
Feb. 4, 2026 at 7:07pm
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Penn State Nittany Lions forward Gavin McKenna, a projected top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, is facing felony aggravated assault charges after an alleged incident in downtown State College, Pennsylvania on Saturday night. According to reports, the incident occurred just hours after McKenna and the Nittany Lions lost in overtime to Michigan State at Beaver Stadium in front of 75,000 fans.
Why it matters
McKenna is considered one of the top NHL prospects in the 2026 draft class, so these charges could have major implications for his professional hockey career. The incident also raises concerns about player conduct and discipline at the college level, especially for high-profile athletes.
The details
State College Police have charged McKenna with felony aggravated assault, which carries up to 20 years in prison, as well as misdemeanor simple assault, disorderly conduct, and harassment. The charges stem from an alleged altercation at a local bar, Doggie's Pub, where McKenna is accused of breaking a victim's jaw.
- The incident occurred around 10:35 pm local time on Saturday, February 4, 2026.
- Earlier that day, McKenna and the Nittany Lions had lost in overtime to Michigan State at Beaver Stadium in front of 75,000 fans.
The players
Gavin McKenna
A freshman forward for the Penn State Nittany Lions hockey team who is considered a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft.
Penn State Nittany Lions
The NCAA Division I men's ice hockey team representing Pennsylvania State University.
Michigan State Spartans
The NCAA Division I men's ice hockey team representing Michigan State University.
What’s next
McKenna is currently awaiting his preliminary hearing. Penn State has not yet commented on the situation.
The takeaway
This incident raises serious concerns about player conduct and discipline at the college level, especially for high-profile athletes like McKenna who are projected to be top NHL draft picks. The charges could have major implications for his professional hockey career.
