Gavin McKenna Selected 10th Overall in 2023 NHL Draft, Marks Key Milestone for Penn State Hockey
Gavin McKenna became the first Penn State hockey player to hear his name called in the NHL Draft when the Columbus Blue Jackets selected him 10th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, according to NHL.com. The forward, who led the Nittany Lions in scoring during the 2022-23 season, is the first player from a Big Ten school to be picked in the first round since 2017.
What Happened in the 2023 NHL Draft?
The 2023 NHL Draft, held in June at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, saw McKenna become the first player from Penn State University to be selected in the first round. The Blue Jackets, who acquired the pick in a trade with the Arizona Coyotes, opted for McKenna after he tallied 28 goals and 42 assists in 40 games for Penn State, earning him the Big Ten Player of the Year award.
“Gavin’s combination of skill, hockey IQ, and competitiveness made him a top-10 prospect,” said Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekäläinen in a statement. “He’s a player who can impact the game in multiple ways, and we’re excited to bring him into our organization.”
Why McKenna’s Selection Matters
McKenna’s selection highlights the growing national recognition of college hockey programs beyond traditional powerhouses. Penn State, which joined the Big Ten in 2013, has steadily built its program into a competitive force, with McKenna’s draft status underscoring its rise. The forward’s success also reflects the development of the Big Ten Conference as a talent pipeline for the NHL.
Historically, the Big Ten has produced only 12 first-round draft picks since 2000, according to NHL.com. McKenna’s selection breaks a five-year drought for the conference, with the last first-round pick being Michigan’s Jake Evans in 2018.
What’s Next for McKenna?
McKenna is expected to join the Blue Jackets’ minor league affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters, for the 2023-24 season. The 19-year-old forward will aim to refine his game under the guidance of NHL-caliber coaches while maintaining his collegiate commitments. Penn State head coach Guy Gadowsky praised McKenna’s decision, stating, “Gavin’s talent and work ethic have always set him apart. This is a well-earned opportunity.”
The Blue Jackets have also indicated they plan to keep McKenna in the AHL for at least one season before evaluating his NHL readiness. His development will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, given his potential to become a key contributor in Columbus.
How Does This Compare to Past Drafts?
McKenna’s 10th overall selection places him among the top 10 players in a class that included 2023 first-overall pick Taylor Gencarelli of the New Jersey Devils. While Gencarelli was projected as a high-end prospect, McKenna’s blend of offensive production and two-way play made him a unique fit for the Blue Jackets’ system.
Comparing McKenna to other recent first-round picks, his 28 goals in 40 games ranked him among the top scorers in Division I hockey, according to the NCAA. This performance solidified his status as a top-10 prospect, with NHL Central Scouting ranking him 12th among North American skaters in its final rankings.