Gavin McKenna is set to transition from the Western Hockey League (WHL) to NCAA hockey, maintaining his previous jersey number. The highly regarded prospect, anticipated to be a top selection in the 2026 NHL Draft, will don No. 72 during his inaugural season with the Penn State Nittany Lions, as announced by the program.

McKenna previously wore No. 72 while playing for the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL, where he put up an impressive 129 points across 56 games last season. Notably, this marks the first instance a Penn State player will wear this number, as the highest previously worn by a Nittany Lions player was No. 35. Furthermore, McKenna is not alone in embracing higher jersey numbers; fellow freshman defenseman Nolan Collins, a Pittsburgh Penguins prospect, will wear No. 77, and freshman forward Shea Van Olm will set a new program record with the number 93.

In contrast, freshman defenseman Jackson Smith has opted for the number 7 after being selected in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. The recent rule change permitting former Canadian Hockey League players to compete in NCAA hockey positions McKenna as one of the most highly anticipated prospects in the collegiate ranks ahead of the upcoming NHL Draft. The 17-year-old forward confirmed his commitment to Penn State on July 8, following a period of consideration that included Michigan State. Following a significant achievement where Penn State made its first Frozen Four appearance, the Nittany Lions will look to contend for a national title next spring, particularly with McKenna joining Aiden Fink, a Nashville Predators prospect and Hobey Baker Award finalist, on the top line.