A star NHL forward, widely regarded as one of the league’s top players, reflects on his career trajectory ahead of his upcoming birthday. The athlete, who was the first overall pick in a major draft, sits alongside his team’s captain in a moment of camaraderie. With a decade of professional experience under his belt, he remains a cornerstone of his franchise’s success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching as he prepares to mark another milestone in his storied career.

To his immediate left was Auston Matthews, the Maple Leafs captain, who will turn 29 on Thursday and was taken No. 1 by Toronto in the 2016 NHL Draft. Right next to him was McKenna, the forward from ...