NHL · 3 months ago

5 Reasons Gavin McKenna’s PSU Commit Will Change NCAA Hockey Forever

Jake Burkey

Host · Writer

5. Influencing NHL Draft Trends
Historically, the CHL (WHL/OHL/QMJHL) pipeline dominates early NHL Draft picks. If McKenna plays in the NCAA and still goes top 3, or #1 overall, as expected, it would validate NCAA hockey as an elite development path for even the very best prospects. This could lead to a long-term shift in scouting and development philosophies among NHL teams.
1. Redefining Recruiting Standards
Gavin McKenna is considered a generational talent, often compared to the likes of Connor Bedard, who so happens to be his actual cousin. McKenna’s decision to choose the NCAA path over the traditional Canadian major junior route, such as the WHL, has signaled that elite Canadian players no longer view the NCAA as a secondary option. This could drastically shift the recruiting landscape, with more top-tier prospects exploring college options.

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2. Elevating NCAA Viewership and Exposure
Gavin McKenna’s highlight-reel skills, explosive speed, and point-producing ability could draw massive attention from fans, media, and NHL scouts. His presence would boost TV ratings, sell out college arenas, and attract more national broadcasts. Essentially, he'd turn NCAA games into must-watch events, similar to how Zion Williamson did for college basketball.

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3. Accelerating NIL Growth in Hockey
With NCAA athletes now allowed to profit off their NIL, Gavin McKenna could become the first hockey player to truly capitalize on it at a superstar level. Penn State reportedly offered a $700,000 NIL package, which ultimately led to his signing. His marketability could pave the way for future players to earn substantial money in college, making NCAA hockey a more financially viable option and altering the economic landscape of college hockey.

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4. Raising the Talent Ceiling in NCAA
If Gavin McKenna breaks records or dominates immediately, it will raise expectations for what freshmen players can do. It would force programs to train and develop differently. It could convince more elite Canadian and international prospects to opt for college development, believing they can thrive and reach the NHL more quickly through the NCAA.
5. Influencing NHL Draft Trends
Historically, the CHL (WHL/OHL/QMJHL) pipeline dominates early NHL Draft picks. If McKenna plays in the NCAA and still goes top 3, or #1 overall, as expected, it would validate NCAA hockey as an elite development path for even the very best prospects. This could lead to a long-term shift in scouting and development philosophies among NHL teams.
1. Redefining Recruiting Standards
Gavin McKenna is considered a generational talent, often compared to the likes of Connor Bedard, who so happens to be his actual cousin. McKenna’s decision to choose the NCAA path over the traditional Canadian major junior route, such as the WHL, has signaled that elite Canadian players no longer view the NCAA as a secondary option. This could drastically shift the recruiting landscape, with more top-tier prospects exploring college options.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

5 Reasons Gavin McKenna’s PSU Commit Will Change NCAA Hockey Forever

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