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Gavin McKenna makes big decision on Team Canada before NHL Draft, potential Maple Leafs pick
TL;DR
Gavin McKenna has decided to focus on the NHL Draft instead of joining Team Canada for the IIHF World Championships. He is projected to be the top pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Key points
- Gavin McKenna is focusing on the NHL Draft
- He may be the No. 1 overall pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs
- McKenna was a candidate for Team Canada at the IIHF World Championships
Gavin McKennaToronto Maple LeafsIIHF World Championships
Gavin McKenna makes big decision on Team Canada before NHL Draft, potential Maple Leafs pick originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Gavin McKenna may have had a notable opportunity with Team Canada this offseason.
Instead, he's focused on the upcoming NHL Draft as he lines up as the favorite to be chosen No. 1 overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs.
McKenna was in the running to represent the Canadian team at the IIHF World Championships, which are happening in the second half of May.
He opted to get ready for the NHL Combine.
"It's better for his development to stay back, prepare for the NHL Combine and start his summer training," agent Matt Williams of CAA Hockey told NHL.com. "I know we thought he was going, but it just makes more sense. (Canada) has a deep team."
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The Combine begins on June 1 in Buffalo, so it would've been tough for McKenna to go overseas for a couple weeks, then return immediately and be at his best at the Combine.
There's a case to be made that McKenna doesn't necessarily need to win anyone over at the Combine.
Q&A
Why did Gavin McKenna choose not to play for Team Canada?
Gavin McKenna opted to focus on the upcoming NHL Draft rather than participate in the IIHF World Championships.
What are Gavin McKenna's chances of being picked by the Toronto Maple Leafs?
Gavin McKenna is considered the favorite to be selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL Draft.
When are the IIHF World Championships taking place?
The IIHF World Championships are scheduled for the second half of May.