Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna is ready to make an impression this season, although, according to Chris Johnston, he may need to pump the brakes.
One of the biggest decisions Jim Hiller needs to make to start the regular season is where Gavin McKenna is going to play. Does he go on the top line with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies? Or does he go on the second line with John Tavares and William Nylander?
According to insider Chris Johnston, the answer to that question is likely going to be neither.
What did Chris Johnston say about Gavin McKenna?
As per Johnston's reporting, the sense right now is that McKenna is likely to start the season on the third line. He would therefore be alongside guys like Nick Paul, Colton Sissons, or perhaps even Teddy Blueger.
The logic here is very simple. The team wants to ease McKenna into the lineup and not overload him with expectations.
By no means am I saying it will be a permanent decision, and maybe eventually that duo (Matthews & Mckenna) will link up. But in the early days, I think you'll see a veteran player like Jack Roslovic more likely to slot in beside Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies on the Leafs top line… giving McKenna a chance to get comfortable in the team.
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However, Johnston senses that the Leafs are very much open to the idea of McKenna earning his way to the first line eventually.
Is this the right plan for Gavin McKenna?
It's hard to argue against this kind of plan for McKenna. After all, he is a young player who hasn't gone up against NHL competition yet.
While he is the first overall pick with a ton of hype, there are still plenty of unknowns with the young star. This plan allows McKenna to get a feel for the game against weaker line matchups. From there, Hiller can give him more opportunities if he earns it.
This is certainly an exciting time for the Maple Leafs and their fans. However, it's important to not get too overzealous. Sure, he may be a fantastic process, but that does not guarantee immediate success.
For McKenna, it is going to be a process. A process that this franchise cannot afford to botch.
Do you believe Gavin McKenna should start the season in the bottom-six?
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