What's Happening?
Penn State hockey is making headlines with its players Tessa Janecke and Gavin McKenna taking center stage in professional drafts. Tessa Janecke, a standout player for Penn State, was selected third overall by PWHL Las Vegas in the 2026 PWHL Draft, marking
her as the highest-drafted athlete in the history of Penn State hockey. Janecke, who has set school records in goals, assists, and points, also boasts a gold medal from the 2026 Winter Olympics with Team USA. Meanwhile, Gavin McKenna, a freshman at Penn State, is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, potentially making him the first Penn State player to achieve this distinction. McKenna's impressive season included setting nine program records and earning the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award. The Toronto Maple Leafs, holding the top pick, have shown significant interest in McKenna, who is considered the most talented player in this draft class.
Why It's Important?
The achievements of Tessa Janecke and Gavin McKenna underscore the growing prominence of Penn State's hockey program on the national stage. Janecke's selection as the third overall pick in the PWHL Draft highlights the increasing recognition of women's hockey and the opportunities available for female athletes. Her success could inspire more young women to pursue hockey at a competitive level. McKenna's potential selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the NHL Draft would be a historic moment for Penn State, enhancing the university's reputation as a breeding ground for top-tier hockey talent. This could lead to increased recruitment and investment in the program, benefiting future athletes and the university's sports culture.
What's Next?
As the NHL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Gavin McKenna to see if he will indeed be selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs. If selected, McKenna will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact in the NHL, potentially transforming the Maple Leafs' lineup. For Penn State, the continued success of its hockey players in professional drafts could lead to further development of its hockey program, attracting more high-caliber athletes and increasing its competitiveness in collegiate hockey. Additionally, the performance of these athletes in their professional careers will be closely watched, as it could influence the future of hockey recruitment and development at Penn State.
