Gavin McKenna’s Jersey Number Change for the Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs’ top draft pick, Gavin McKenna, is making a significant change as he gears up for the upcoming season. Known for his impressive gameplay, McKenna will swap his jersey number for his rookie year.

McKenna has consistently worn No. 72 during his time with the Western Hockey League’s Medicine Hat Tigers and at Penn State. Fans expected him to continue with this number for the Maple Leafs, as evidenced by the number of jerseys ordered with McKenna’s name and No. 72.

However, a new twist emerged when the Leafs signed goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. Bobrovsky has worn No. 72 throughout his career, aside from his debut seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he donned No. 35. This development raised questions about whether McKenna or Bobrovsky would retain the number.

Eventually, McKenna chose to switch his number to 92. This decision required some creativity, as the potential alternatives were unavailable due to the Leafs’ retired numbers, such as No. 9 for Charlie Conacher and Ted Kennedy, and No. 27 for Frank Mahovlich and Darryl Sittler.

Before finalizing his decision, McKenna reached out to Jeff O’Neill, one of the previous players to wear No. 92, to ensure he was comfortable with the choice. O’Neill agreed, clearing the way for McKenna’s new number.

McKenna is set to be a vital asset in helping the Maple Leafs recover from a challenging 2025-26 season, during which they finished last in the Atlantic Division.