Toronto won the first overall pick and many expected Gavin McKenna to be the immediate game changer. A 2026 NHL mock draft predicts Toronto would still select McKenna, but it notes doubt about him. Concerns center on whether he can become a complete 200-foot player rather than a defensive liability. The possibility of prioritizing a long-term organizational need on defense is raised, including the idea of selecting Ivar Stenberg, viewed as already capable and experienced against stronger competition in the Swedish Hockey League. The draft also points to Toronto’s ongoing need for a stud top-pairing defenseman, with Morgan Rielly as the closest homegrown option in recent years.
"The Athletic indicated that they think "it isn't a foregone conclusion that McKenna is the pick for the Leafs". In fact, they bring up a couple of worrisome points in that "there is some doubt out there about him (McKenna)" and that "there's a case to be made to prioritize a long-time organizational need on D"."
"First of all, it seems like McKenna might not be the obvious No. 1 pick that many have envisioned for the Leafs. There is no question about his elite offensive ability and his way in creating plays that could be unimaginable. But the worry likely stems from the stipulation on whether he can eventually be a complete 200-foot player or instead become a huge liability in the defensive aspects of his game."
"As a result, it could make the Maple Leafs lean towards someone like Ivar Stenberg, who is believed to be already that player, along with plenty of experience having played against bigger competition in the Swedish Hockey League. In addition, should the Leafs actually focus on their most important need in recent years, which is a stud, top-pairing defenseman?"
Read at Editor In Leaf
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