​Gavin McKenna, the 2026 first overall pick in the NHL Entry Draft, is already winning over Maple Leafs fans even before he has played a single NHL game. The aspiring star forward recently caught the attention of longtime Leafs followers by reaching out to a former Maple Leaf for permission to wear his old number.
On Friday night, Jeff O’Neill, the former Toronto Maple Leafs forward who now serves as a popular sports broadcaster in the city, shared a lighthearted update with fans. In a FaceTime call, McKenna asked O’Neill for approval to wear the same number O’Neill wore during his time with the Maple Leafs. O’Neill wore No. 92, and while he isn’t typically viewed as a player one would need to seek permission from over such a request, McKenna clearly understands the significance of O’Neill’s legacy within the Leafs community.
O’Neill’s career with the Maple Leafs was brief—two seasons—after stints with the Hartford Whalers (before their relocation) and the Carolina Hurricanes. Despite not having a standout final stretch, his name carries considerable respect among Leafs fans, and McKenna’s gesture to contact him demonstrated thoughtful respect for that history.
The response from O’Neill reflected the warmth of the moment. He expressed enthusiasm about the idea of the young star donning the same number he once wore, calling it “the only way to go, son” and signaling his full support with an enthusiastic “LFG.”