McKenna had ‘good talk’ with Maple Leafs coach Hiller after benching

Oct 17, 2026, 3:16 PM ET|Comments (0)

from NHL.com,

TORONTO -- Gavin McKenna is ready to move forward after the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft was benched by Toronto Maple Leafs coach Jim Hiller on Thursday.

The 18-year-old left wing sat the final 32:54 of a 5-4 overtime loss to the Buffalo Sabres. McKenna played just 6:36 and had one shot on goal.

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