BUFFALO — Gavin McKenna couldn’t contain his disbelief and joy as he processed the surreal sequence of events when recording artist and Toronto Maple Leafs fan Justin Bieber took the draft stage in Buffalo.  

"He was looking at me. So I kind of was thinking maybe," the 18-year-old said of the moment he knew for sure he was going first overall at the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. "I’m a huge Justin Bieber fan. Playing his song for my walk-up was a pretty cool moment. So crazy, just crazy what’s going on right now."   

McKenna's selection sent waves of excitement through fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Many faithful supporters made the trip down the Queen Elizabeth Way to watch what seemed like the presumptive No. 1 pick.  

"It feels good. I love those fans already. And it's one of the most passionate fan bases out there. I'm looking forward to getting started and I can't wait to see what the future holds," McKenna said.  

The last time the Maple Leafs held the No. 1 pick was also the last time the NHL Draft was held at KeyBank Center in Buffalo. Toronto used that selection to pick consensus top prospect Auston Matthews , who instantly shattered expectations by scoring four goals on opening night while playing on the third line.  

While it is ultimately up to new head coach Jim Hiller to decide where McKenna will debut, it’s clear the newest Leaf is eyeing a spot alongside Toronto’s captain.  

"Obviously he's on the first line. I'm going to have to prove myself to be able to play with a player like that. But that's my goal," McKenna said. "I think he's a special player. If I got the opportunity to play with him—I think my game is obviously being a playmaker, and he's a shooter—I think we could complement each other pretty well. But like I said, I've got to work towards that, and that's my goal."   

No doubt expectations will be high. However, McKenna already seems mature beyond his years, handling himself with poise during his first news conference as a Leaf.  

“I think pressure is a privilege," McKenna said. "When you go to a fan base like that and you do well, it's the best spot to be. You said it's the biggest market out there. So I'm confident in myself, and I want to do well. Hopefully, the fan base falls in love with me, and it's a good time.”

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