McKenna and Stenberg Anchor 2026 Winger Class

Gavin McKenna tallied 51 points in 35 NCAA games this season after posting video-game numbers in the WHL.

McKenna’s Playmaking Edge

Gavin McKenna recorded 15 goals and 36 assists at Penn State while leading the Nittany Lions in created turnovers. His 1.46 points per game ranked second nationally among freshmen. McKenna’s vision allows him to dissect power plays with passes that consistently create high-danger chances.

McKenna’s WHL totals reached 173 points across regular season, playoffs and Memorial Cup play in his draft-minus-one year. That production contrasts sharply with his defensive engagement, which scouts describe as inconsistent and lacking physical commitment along the boards.

The Penn State forward improved five-on-five involvement late in the season yet still projects as a first-line power-play specialist rather than a 200-foot driver. Teams drafting him accept the risk that defensive lapses will require coaching attention after the 2026 draft.

McKenna’s 5-foot-11 frame and 170-pound weight have drawn questions about physical durability, yet his hands and creativity remain unmatched in the class.

Stenberg’s Complete Profile

Ivar Stenberg posted 11 goals and 22 assists for 33 points in 43 SHL games with Frolunda during the 2025-26 season. The Swedish winger added eight points in eight games at the 2026 World Championship, earning top-three player honors for his country.

Stenberg plays with pace and edge that McKenna lacks, allowing him to succeed in tighter checking environments. His quick-release shot from high-danger areas complements strong board play and coverage awareness on the defensive side.

Stenberg ranked first among international skaters on NHL Central Scouting’s final list, establishing him as the only other player with a realistic case to go first overall. His pro-ready two-way game contrasts with McKenna’s offensive ceiling and creates a clear top tier of two wingers.

Depth Beyond the Top Two

Mathis Preston’s pace and shot remain elite despite early-season production dips after his trade to Vancouver in the WHL. Wyatt Cullen drove offense for the U.S. NTDP and showed improved decision-making at the U18s. Elton Hermansson flashed lethal skill and creativity in limited high-level exposure with MoDo.

These three wingers plus later options such as Adam Valentini and Ethan Belchetz give teams multiple paths to add flank scoring after the first round. The class’s winger strength compensates for documented center weaknesses noted across scouting reports.

Stenberg’s SHL experience and McKenna’s NCAA efficiency together signal immediate NHL pathways unavailable to most prospects in recent drafts.