Gavin McKenna calls out Toronto media pressure after pointless start with Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs had an optional skate yet again, but this time Gavin McKenna showed up and silenced any critics who may have issues with his performance.

McKenna is certainly feeling the sting of not only the Toronto faithful but also the media. While he hasn't scored yet and there isn't a need to be sounding the alarm just yet (though a new look might so him some good).

But it's more the question about his inconsistency when it comes to practices. Toronto has held multiple optional skates and skill sessions, with McKenna only appearing in a handful, missing several including one before his NHL debut.

McKenna's answer to critics lies in his ability to skate every optional practice

While that can be forgiven, it is a little odd that the rookie would bypass any additional reps especially since he hasn't started to blow people away. He must've taken it to heart, because on Tuesday morning he was part of the crew:

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McKenna was part of a handful of Maple Leafs who skated during the optional practice including Chris Tanev, and Morgan Rielly. It's great to see him on the ice, and he's at least looking like he's trying to get his footing under him:

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No one is saying that McKenna needs to just start going ham during optional skates and tire himself out, but merely making an appearance and getting some chemistry and extra coaching is always beneficial.

It's roughly an hour or so of skating and practicing for Toronto, and given that it happens several hours before the game, that's enough time for McKenna to rest if he needs to, get hydrated, well-fed - whatever he needs to prior to the game.

Toronto needs Gavin McKenna to prove he's dedicating himself

It's more the principle of showing up that people are taking issues with. If McKenna had been scoring from game one, it's almost guaranteed that he wouldn't get nearly as much attention regarding his practice schedule as he is now.

It's something he addressed after the optional practice on Tuesday, as he jokingly mentioned that the Toronto media is relentless, and mentioned it may have been an early wake-up call:

When you're in the Toronto media and putting up zero points in three games... that's my welcome to the NHL moment.

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If he starts showing up to the optionals more frequently, the pressure is going to lessen and hopefully in turn that means the scoring will come easier. Fans are immensely excited about McKenna and want to see him thrive.

But they also want to see that he understands the weight of a rough start in the NHL, and is doing whatever he can in his power to get better. Tuesday's practice was a good start; he just needs to keep showing up.

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Gavin McKenna faces work ethic criticism after missing another optional Leafs skills session