A promising rookie made his NHL pre-season debut, delivering standout performances that reinforced the team’s confidence in their high-profile draft selection. Though he didn’t register a point, his combination of agility, skill, and playmaking ability suggested he could be a key contributor moving forward. Scouts and fans alike took note of his polished performance, which came against a strong opponent. The early signs hint at a bright future for the young player.

Gavin McKenna made his NHL pre-season debut Saturday against Montreal, and while he was held off the scoresheet, he showed enough slipperiness, skill and vision to prove the Maple Leafs were right to draft him with the top pick earlier this year.