McKenna and Celebrini Set for First NHL Matchup
Gavin McKenna and Macklin Celebrini will face each other in the NHL for the first time Monday when Toronto hosts San Jose. The two No. 1 picks trained together in Vancouver during the summer, and McKenna said he is excited to compete against Celebrini. McKenna also discussed his recent benching, saying coach Jim Hiller told him it was not about his play.
Monday’s game at Scotiabank Arena will pair the top pick from 2026, McKenna, with the top pick from 2024, Celebrini. The two spent summer ice and gym sessions together in Vancouver, and McKenna said that experience helped him see Celebrini’s work ethic up close.
Celebrini, San Jose’s captain, recorded 115 points last season after a 63-point rookie year and has 11 points in six games this season. McKenna has nine NHL appearances, including a four-game point streak, a brief benching Thursday, and 17:56 of ice time Saturday.
The first McKenna-Celebrini NHL meeting could heighten interest among hockey fans in Toronto and San Jose, and may offer young players a visible example of how highly drafted talents develop. McKenna’s benching and response may also shape fan discussion about how teams manage young athletes. Any broader societal effect is likely limited, though the game could briefly lift local media attention, attendance interest, and youth-hockey conversation.