Gavins Makena | Foto: IIHF
For the main favorite of the 2026 National Hockey League (NHL) draft Gavinam Makenammay have to appear before the court – he is accused of several serious violations.
According to the North American media, the 18-year-old Canadian man has been charged in the US state of Pennsylvania with aggravated assault in the first degree – an attempt to cause serious bodily harm, ignoring the possible health consequences. He is also accused of simple assault, as well as two offenses of disturbing the order – harassment and engaging in a fight.
Aggravated assault is the most serious charge under Pennsylvania law. The maximum penalty for aggravated assault in the first degree in this state is up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000. Documents show that a preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 11.
The incident took place on the evening of January 31 on the territory of the Pennsylvania State College. According to police, McKenna punched a 21-year-old man in the face, causing injuries that required surgery. Unofficial information indicates that Makena broke the victim’s jaw. McCann was charged after questioning and released on $20,000 bail.
On January 31, McKenna’s Penn State hockey team played an outdoor NCAA Championship game. North American media reports that McKenna, along with friends and family, had gone to a bar after the match, where the said conflict took place.
All forecasts have shown that Makena will be selected with the first number in the upcoming NHL draft, where Latvian defenseman Alberts Šmits is also vying for a high spot. McKenna has collected 32 (11+21) points in 24 NCAA matches for Penn State this season.
