Top NHL Draft Prospect Gavin McKenna Facing Aggravated Assault Charge Following Incident in State College
Gavin McKenna, one of the most highly touted prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft and a standout freshman for Penn State men’s hockey, is facing serious legal trouble following an incident that occurred on the evening of Saturday, January 31 - just hours after the team’s outdoor game at Beaver Stadium.
McKenna, 18, has been charged with four counts, including a felony charge of aggravated assault. If convicted, the penalties could be severe: up to 20 years in prison and/or a $25,000 fine.
The incident reportedly took place at a bar in downtown State College and resulted in the victim sustaining a broken jaw. A report was officially filed on Wednesday, February 4, and the case is now awaiting a preliminary hearing.
Penn State issued a brief statement acknowledging the charges but declined to comment further, citing the ongoing nature of the legal matter.
McKenna, a native of Whitehorse, Yukon, came into this season with sky-high expectations. His skill, hockey IQ, and poise on the ice have already turned heads in his first year at the NCAA level. Many scouts have pegged him as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, and his performance so far has only reinforced that projection.
But this off-ice development has cast a shadow over what had been a breakout freshman campaign. While it's still early in the legal process, the charges are serious, and they could have significant implications not only for McKenna’s collegiate career but also for his draft stock and professional future.
For now, the focus shifts to the legal proceedings and how the situation unfolds in the coming weeks. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.