Gavin McKenna is set to bring his previous WHL experience to NCAA hockey, donning the jersey number 72 during his inaugural season with the Penn State Nittany Lions. This announcement was made by the program on Tuesday. McKenna previously wore No. 72 while playing for the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL, where he achieved an impressive 129 points over 56 games in the last season.

Historically, No. 72 has not been worn by any player within the Penn State program, with No. 35 being the highest number previously utilized. McKenna's choice of number reflects not only his individual accomplishments but also a shift in tradition for the university's hockey program. He is not alone in this trend; fellow incoming freshman and Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Nolan Collins will wear No. 77, while former WHL standout and freshman forward Shea Van Olm will break more records by adopting the number 93. In contrast, freshman defenseman Jackson Smith will sport No. 7, having just been selected in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets.

A recent rule change permitting former CHL players to join NCAA hockey programs has positioned McKenna as one of the most anticipated prospects in the collegiate hockey landscape ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft. McKenna confirmed his commitment to Penn State on July 8, having also considered Michigan State. The Nittany Lions, fresh off their inaugural Frozen Four appearance, are eager for the contributions of McKenna, particularly as they aim for a national title next spring. Aiden Fink, a Nashville Predators prospect and Hobey Baker Award finalist from last season, is also returning to the team, enhancing the team's prospects for the upcoming season.