Gavin McKenna is set to wear No. 72 as he transitions from the Western Hockey League (WHL) to NCAA hockey with Penn State University. The announcement comes as McKenna is projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Last season, while playing for the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL, he achieved an impressive 129 points in 56 games, showcasing his scoring ability.

Notably, No. 72 has never been worn by a Penn State player, with the previously highest number at the school being No. 35. McKenna is not the only newcomer to break this trend; freshmen are shifting the culture of jersey numbers within the program. Nolan Collins, a defenseman and Pittsburgh Penguins prospect, will don No. 77 next season, while forward Shea Van Olm, another WHL standout, is set to create history by wearing No. 93. In contrast, freshman defenseman Jackson Smith will take on the more traditional No. 7 as he joins following his first-round selection in the 2025 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets.

A recent rule change has permitted former CHL players like McKenna to compete in NCAA hockey, significantly elevating his profile as a sought-after college prospect. He announced his commitment to Penn State on July 8 after also considering offers from Michigan State. With the Nittany Lions coming off their inaugural Frozen Four appearance and Nashville Predators prospect Aiden Fink returning after a strong season as a Hobey Baker Award finalist, the addition of McKenna to the roster is anticipated to bolster their title aspirations in the upcoming season.