Gavin McKenna Could Be the Crown Jewel of Michigan State Hockey's Future
Let me talk to you about one of the most exciting and competitive recruitment stories in college hockey right now — the Gavin McKenna saga. This isn’t just any player we’re talking about. McKenna is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, and his college decision is shaping up to be a game-changer, especially for a surging Michigan State hockey program.
McKenna hails from Whitehorse, Yukon, and has been a superstar in junior hockey with the Medicine Hat Tigers. In three seasons there, he racked up an astounding 244 points over 133 games. Just this past year, he exploded with 129 points in 56 games. We’re talking about a generational talent — someone who doesn’t just make a team better, but elevates an entire program.
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Originally, most people thought he was a lock to end up at Michigan. But things have shifted — fast. According to Elliotte Friedman on the "32 Thoughts" podcast, McKenna has recently met with four programs via Zoom: Denver, Michigan, Michigan State, and Penn State. Now, it looks like it’s down to just two serious contenders: Michigan State and Penn State.
Here’s where it gets really interesting. Penn State is reportedly going all-in with a huge NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) offer. But Michigan State? They’re banking on something different — a professional development system that’s quickly become one of the most respected in the country under head coach Adam Nightingale. The Spartans are creating a culture of success, and it’s attracting elite talent fast.
In fact, they’ve already landed two major commitments: Cayden Lindstrom, a top NHL prospect and the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, and Mason West, another highly ranked forward who’s choosing college over the draft. Add McKenna to that mix, and you’ve got something truly special brewing in East Lansing.
Of course, one potential concern is roster depth. With so much top-end talent already committed, McKenna might have to share the spotlight more than he would elsewhere. But honestly, if he’s focused on development, championships, and long-term success, Michigan State might be the ideal fit.
If the Spartans land him, this could be the college hockey version of the 2015 Golden State Warriors — a superteam built not just to compete, but to dominate. And with national title hopes already in the conversation, adding McKenna might be the final step to make those dreams a reality. This recruitment could come down to the wire, but one thing is clear: wherever McKenna goes, the entire landscape of college hockey is going to shift. And if it's Michigan State, the future is now.
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