Gavin McKenna performed fitness testing at the 2026 NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo, New York [1, 2].

These assessments are critical for top prospects to establish their physical baseline and improve their draft stock before teams select new players. For McKenna, the event serves as a primary opportunity to demonstrate that his athleticism matches his skill set on the ice.

The combine in Buffalo features top prospects undergoing physical testing and interviews, NHL.com staff said [3]. These evaluations allow scouts and general managers to gather objective data on speed, strength, and agility, metrics that often influence a player's final draft position.

McKenna entered the process looking to address doubts and challenges faced during his draft year. By focusing on physical readiness, he aims to transition more effectively into the professional game. The environment in Buffalo provides a standardized setting where prospects are measured against their peers in real-time.

"I just want to prove I can compete at the next level," McKenna said [4].

His participation in the combine is part of a broader strategy to manage expectations and prepare for the rigors of the NHL. The testing phase is designed to identify specific areas of improvement, which players then address through tailored training programs leading up to the draft. As one of the most watched prospects in the 2026 class, McKenna's results in Buffalo will be closely scrutinized by teams across the league.

“"I just want to prove I can compete at the next level,"”

The NHL Draft Combine acts as a critical vetting process where subjective scouting reports are validated by objective physical data. For a high-profile prospect like Gavin McKenna, a strong showing in Buffalo minimizes the perceived risk for drafting teams and can solidify a top-tier selection position in the 2026 NHL Draft.