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Gavin McKenna Sits Final 32:54 of Maple Leafs’ Overtime Loss

Toronto coach Jim Hiller accepts responsibility after the first overall pick plays only 6:36 against Buffalo.

By TSP Staff
Gavin McKenna sits on the Toronto Maple Leafs bench during a game.
Gavin McKenna during Toronto’s game against Buffalo on October 15, 2026. · Credit: Michael Chisholm / NHLI via Getty Images

Gavin McKenna did not take another shift over the final 32:54 of Toronto’s 5-4 overtime loss to Buffalo on Thursday. The first overall selection in the 2026 draft finished with 6:36 of ice time, his lowest total through eight NHL appearances.

Coach Jim Hiller said penalties interrupted McKenna’s opportunities and accepted responsibility for not getting him back onto the ice earlier in the third period. NHL.com reported that McKenna’s final shift ended with 9:40 remaining in the second period.

The rookie does not kill penalties for Toronto. Hiller said the length of the subsequent layoff became another consideration as the game progressed. McKenna entered the night with five points in seven games and an average of 15 minutes of ice time.

Toronto’s available forward group shrank further when John Tavares left early in the third period with an undisclosed injury. Hiller said he planned to speak with McKenna before Saturday’s game against the Islanders. The coach’s explanation does not establish that the reduced role will continue into that next game.