Top NHL prospect and Penn State freshman charged with felony assault

Gavin McKenna accused of breaking man's jaw in altercation after hockey game

Feb. 5, 2026 at 10:47pm

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Penn State hockey star Gavin McKenna, a freshman center and presumptive top pick in this summer's NHL draft, has been charged with felony assault for allegedly breaking a man's jaw and knocking out a tooth in an altercation last weekend after a game against Michigan State.

Why it matters

McKenna is considered one of the top NHL prospects and his arrest could have major implications for his hockey career and Penn State's hockey program. Incidents of violence involving high-profile student-athletes raise concerns about athlete behavior and campus safety.

The details

According to police, McKenna twice punched the 21-year-old man in the face, requiring him to undergo surgery and have his jaw wired shut. The incident happened in the hours after Penn State lost to No. 2 Michigan State in an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium.

  • The incident occurred last weekend after Penn State's loss to Michigan State.
  • McKenna was arraigned and released on $20,000 unsecured bail.
  • A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 11.

The players

Gavin McKenna

A freshman center for the Penn State hockey team and a presumptive top pick in the upcoming NHL draft.

21-year-old man

The victim of the alleged assault, who suffered a broken jaw and lost a tooth.

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What’s next

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 11 to determine if there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial.

The takeaway

This incident raises concerns about the behavior of high-profile student-athletes and the potential consequences of violence, both for the individuals involved and the broader campus community.