Gavin McKenna is set to bring his previous Western Hockey League (WHL) number to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) as he begins his collegiate career with Penn State. The highly regarded forward, projected to be the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, will don the number 72 for his inaugural season with the Nittany Lions, as announced by the program on Tuesday.

McKenna wore No. 72 while playing with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL last season, where he demonstrated his offensive prowess by scoring 129 points in just 56 games. This marks a significant departure from previous jersey numbers at Penn State, as no player in the history of the program has ever worn No. 72. The highest jersey number previously utilized was No. 35, highlighting McKenna's entry into the program with a unique distinction.

In addition to McKenna, fellow incoming freshman and Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Nolan Collins will wear No. 77 next season, contributing to a trend of higher jersey numbers among new recruits. Freshman forward Shea Van Olm, another standout from the WHL, will also establish a new program precedent with the number 93. Conversely, freshman defenseman Jackson Smith, selected in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets, will wear No. 7 as he joins the team. A recent rule change allowing former Canadian Hockey League (CHL) players to compete in NCAA hockey positions McKenna as one of the most anticipated prospects in collegiate hockey as he prepares for the NHL Draft. After considering options including Michigan State, McKenna officially committed to Penn State on July 8. Following the program's inaugural Frozen Four appearance last season, expectations are high as McKenna joins Nashville Predators prospect Aiden Fink on the top line, potentially aiming for a national title in what could be McKenna's only season in college hockey.