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NHL's 2026 projected first overall pick unveils desire to join the Chicago Blackhawks
Photo credit: Team Canada
The projected first overall pick of the 2026 NHL Draft unveiled his desire to join the Chicago Blackhawks in an interview.
After getting the first overall pick in 2023 and the second in 2024, General Manager Kyle Davidson and the Chicago Blackhawks will be the third team to speak this year, for the first decentralized NHL Draft.
With all their talented young players, trade assets, and coaching changes, the team could be on the verge of having a breakout season.
If all goes according to plan, the team won't be among the first teams to draft in 2026, even if they would get an opportunity to get another generational talent.
Indeed, Gavin McKenna, who was granted the exceptional player status, will be eligible for the 2026 draft, and he expressed desires to play for the Blackhawks.
In a recent interview, he revealed that he was a Chicago Blackhawks fan growing up:
« I was a huge Hawks fan growing up, so obviously their dynasty happened right around the time I was coming up.
And yeah, I used to watch them on YouTube every single day - all the highlights and everything. It was pretty fun to watch. »
And yeah, I used to watch them on YouTube every single day - all the highlights and everything. It was pretty fun to watch. »
In the past, some players have stated that they would only play for a precise team, and it would be surprising to see the Blackhawks being able to get McKenna unless that happens or they win the lottery.
Let's not forget that McKenna and Bedard are distant relatives by marriage, and their relationship could play a role in what could happen next.
McKenna has been having a phenomenal season in the WHL, scoring 129 points in 56 games with the Medicine Hat Tigers. He also scored 38 points in 16 playoff games.
Currently competing for the Memorial Cup in Rimouski against the London Knights, Moncton Wildcats, and Rimouski Oceanic, he tallies four points, including two goals, in two games.
If he ends up in Chicago, the Hawks would be likely to become one of the best teams in the NHL for a long time.
| POLL | ||
MAI 28 | 281 ANSWERS NHL's 2026 projected first overall pick unveils desire to join the Chicago Blackhawks Do you think the Chicago Blackhawks should tank to get Gavin McKenna? | ||
| Yes | 119 | 42.3 % |
| No | 162 | 57.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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