This one is basically to dot the “I’s” and cross the “T’s.”
Our third and final installment of the San Jose Sharks draft projection. Well, at least for the 2nd overall pick.
We have highlighted Chase Reid and Ivar Stenberg. So, for the sake of being thorough, today we will look at Gavin McKenna.
Who is Gavin McKenna?
McKenna is an 18-year-old left wing from Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada. The lefty stands at 6’ and weighs 170 pounds. Elite Prospects classified him as a “cerebral tactician, heavy shooter, and an offensive forward.”
Credit: NHLPA-Twitter/XThis past season, McKenna played for the Penn State Nittany Lions in the NCAA. In 35 games, he scored 15 goals and added 36 assists. He also played for Team Canada at the World Junior Championships. He scored four goals and ten assists in seven games.
Why the Sharks could take McKenna
McKenna is considered the top prospect in this year’s draft class. Chances are, the Toronto Maple Leafs will take him first overall. However, if Toronto chooses Stenberg instead, then all bets are off. With GM Mike Grier’s philosophy of “best player available,” McKenna will be a Shark.
The Sharks could experiment with playing McKenna on Macklin Celebrini’s wing, opposite Will Smith. However, I see him being a permanent fixture on Michael Misa’s wing, with Igor Chernyshov staying on the top line. Either way, the Sharks would be adding another top-six forward to the prospect pool.
Conclusion
For well over a year now, McKenna has been the projected first overall selection in this year’s NHL Draft. That is unlikely to change, and he will be a Maple Leaf. You just never know, though.
Reid, Stenberg, or McKenna? No matter what, the Sharks will add a blue-chip player to the fold.
Be excited, Sharks fans.
People are starting to fear what the Sharks can become.
