Gavin McKenna, the top prospect and projected first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, has officially committed to play college hockey at Penn State for the 2025-26 NCAA season. This announcement was made during a live segment on ESPN's SportsCenter and marks a notable shift in hockey's developmental landscape, as McKenna is leaving the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) to join the NCAA. McKenna's commitment is considered one of the highest-profile recruitments in NCAA hockey history and is seen as an important moment for Penn State's hockey program, which is favored to contend for the national championship next season. Reports indicate McKenna will play alongside Columbus Blue Jackets first-round pick Jackson Smith at Penn State. Additionally, McKenna is reportedly set to earn $700,000 to play at Penn State, a development that could influence the future of college hockey recruitment and player compensation. The NCAA's recent allowance for CHL players to retain eligibility has been cited as a factor in this landmark decision. McKenna's move is expected to impact the broader hockey development system, signaling the NCAA as a preferred destination for elite rising stars aiming for the NHL.