Canadiens beat Maple Leafs in McKenna's pro debut
Gavin McKenna debut sparks buzz as the Maple Leafs fall 4-1 to Montreal See how the top pick looked with Tavares and Nylander in his first pro game
Gavin McKenna made his professional debut on Saturday as the Toronto Maple Leafs lost 41 to the Montreal Canadiens in a splitsquad preseason game. The 18yearold winger, selected first overall in June’s NHL draft, skated on a line with John Tavares and William Nylander and recorded three shots on goal in 19:34 of ice time.
McKenna said he felt good despite a few turnovers, calling the outing a strong start to build on. He also drew a warm reception from fans at the rink and said he was excited by the support.
Montreal got goals from Maksymilian Szuber, Phillip Danault and Samuel Poulin, while Samuel Montembeault and Kaapo Kahkonen combined to stop 24 shots. Darren Raddysh scored for Toronto, and the other half of the splitsquad matchup saw Montreal edge Toronto 43 in overtime at the Bell Centre.