Story perspectives

Gavin McKenna Scores Overtime Winner as Maple Leafs Beat Predators

By Drooid · Oct 7, 2026, 3:25 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

McKenna Overtime Goal

Gavin McKenna scored his first NHL goal in overtime as Toronto beat Nashville 5-4.
The goal came on October 6, 2026, in his fourth professional game.
McKenna also earned his NHL point, assisting John Tavares after a feed from Auston Matthews.
At 18 years, 290 days, McKenna became the ninth-youngest Leaf to score an NHL goal.
He was the second player whose NHL point was assisted by a former No. 1 draft pick.

Summary

Leafs Begin Westward

The Leafs begin a three-game western road trip Thursday in Las Vegas, then Colorado and Utah.
Coach Craig Hiller praised the 2-2-0 home record and urged the team to build on two points.
Captain Auston Matthews said the western games test consistency and the squad will enjoy time together.
Early defensive lapses in Nashville forced the Leafs to tighten play before the westward trip, boosting morale.

1 of 2

McKenna Overtime Goal

Gavin McKenna scored his first NHL goal in overtime as Toronto beat Nashville 5-4.
The goal came on October 6, 2026, in his fourth professional game.
McKenna also earned his NHL point, assisting John Tavares after a feed from Auston Matthews.
At 18 years, 290 days, McKenna became the ninth-youngest Leaf to score an NHL goal.
He was the second player whose NHL point was assisted by a former No. 1 draft pick.

1 / 2