Buffalo will host the 2026 NHL Draft, and the buzz surrounding the event extends far beyond the arena lights. Among the prospects generating the most conversation are several players who have chosen to develop their games at Penn State, turning the university into a unexpected hotbed for future NHL talent.
A Nittany Lion Surge
Gavin McKenna stands at the top of the list, widely regarded as the best overall prospect in the draft class. In his sophomore season with the Nittany Lions he recorded 15 goals and 36 assists, a combination of skill and playmaking that has caught the eye of scouts across the league.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have positioned themselves as the team most likely to select McKenna with the first overall pick, a move that would bring a dynamic forward into a roster already brimming with offensive firepower.
Egor Shilov, a center whose offensive instincts have drawn comparisons to elite playmakers, committed to Penn State in May 2026. Analysts project him to be chosen in the late first round or early second round, highlighting his potential to contribute immediately at the professional level.
Jaxon Cover added his name to the Penn State commit list on April 10, 2026. The defenseman is expected to hear his name in the early second round, a testament to his steady development and strong two‑way play.
Pierce Mbuyi, who pledged to the university in June 2025, will not join the program until the 2027 season, but his mid‑second round projection suggests that the organization sees him as a valuable asset for future depth.
Ryder Fetterolf is slated to begin his collegiate career next season and is currently viewed as a fourth‑round prospect, a range that reflects both his upside and the competitive nature of the draft class.
Maple Leafs’ First‑Overall Prospect
Toronto’s scouting department has emphasized McKenna’s vision, work ethic and ability to elevate teammates, traits that align closely with the Maple Leafs’ long‑term strategy. The organization believes that adding a player of his caliber could accelerate their return to contention.
Beyond the immediate draft implications, the influx of Penn State talent underscores a broader shift in how collegiate programs are viewed by NHL teams. The Nittany Lions’ recent on‑ice success is attracting attention, and the program’s pipeline appears poised to produce more NHL‑ready players in the coming years.
As the draft approaches, the combination of individual projections and the collective momentum of Penn State’s prospects creates a narrative that extends well beyond the first round, promising a season of anticipation for fans, teams and the players themselves.