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Penn State Star Gavin McKenna Explodes for 8 Points in Blowout Win
The projected No. 1 NHL Draft pick shines in first home game after off-ice incident.
Feb. 21, 2026 at 8:35pm
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Penn State hockey star Gavin McKenna, the presumptive first-overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, had a massive 8-point game in an 11-4 win over Ohio State. This came just weeks after McKenna was slapped with several charges stemming from an incident at a State College bar, though the most serious charge was later dropped.
Why it matters
McKenna's dominant performance silences those who questioned whether he deserves to be the top pick in the NHL Draft, despite the off-ice incident. His ability to tune out the noise and deliver on the ice will only boost his draft stock further.
The details
McKenna logged 7 assists and 1 goal in the blowout win over Ohio State at Pegula Ice Arena. The Buckeyes are not a weak team, making McKenna's offensive outburst all the more impressive. He received a massive ovation from the Penn State fans in his first home game since the off-ice incident.
- The game on Friday, February 21, 2026 was McKenna's first home game since the off-ice incident.
The players
Gavin McKenna
Penn State hockey star and projected No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.
Ohio State Buckeyes
The opposing team that Penn State defeated 11-4, though they are not a weak squad.
What’s next
McKenna's dominant showing will likely cement his status as the top pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, with teams like the Vancouver Canucks eagerly awaiting the chance to select him.
The takeaway
Despite the off-ice distractions, Gavin McKenna proved he can still dominate on the ice, delivering an 8-point game that will only boost his draft stock and cement his status as the presumptive No. 1 overall pick in the NHL Draft.
