Projected first overall pick Gavin McKenna will not play for Team Canada in the upcoming World Hockey Championship, according to TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger.
Despite previously being expected to play, Hockey Canada and McKenna’s representatives felt it’s in his best interest to focus on the NHL Draft Combine instead of playing at the world championship, added Dreger.
Gavin McKenna won’t be on Team Canada’s roster for the Men’s World Championship. A group decision involving Hockey Canada and McKenna’s representatives feel it’s best to focus on the NHL combine. Canada will have a deep team so this was more of an experience opportunity.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) May 5, 2026
McKenna, 18, scored 15 goals and 36 assists over 35 games for Penn State this season. He had four goals and 10 assists over seven games at the 2026 World Juniors, helping Canada earn the bronze medal.
San Jose Sharks star sophomore Macklin Celebrini, Winnipeg Jets centre Mark Scheifele, New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal and Toronto Maple Leafs veteran defenceman Morgan Rielly have all committed to play for Team Canada at the upcoming world championship.
Canada posted a perfect 6-0 record in round robin robin play last year before being upset by Denmark, 2-1, in the quarter-final.
The 2026 tournament is set to take place in Zurich and Fribourg, Switzerland from May 15-31.
The 2026 NHL Entry Draft will take place in Buffalo from June 26-27.
