Gavin McKenna has yet to play an NHL game, but the Toronto Maple Leafs top prospect is already embracing the spotlight in Toronto. The 2026 No. 1 overall pick spoke enthusiastically about the city after spending time there this summer.Appearing on the JD Bunkis Podcast, McKenna reflected on his first experience with Toronto during the World Cup festivities. I got a little taste of what its like there, what the citys like, what the people are like, and the fans and stuff, he said. When I was there, it was awesome.MORE: Connor McDavid gives honest take on Maple Leafs No. 1 pick Gavin McKennaThe 18-year-old admitted the summer has been demanding but rewarding. Im very grateful for all these opportunities that Ive been getting, McKenna said. Not a lot of kids would be able to say theyre having the summer that Im having.Torontos passionate fan base also left an early impression.The fans, they were approaching me, and they were all awesome about it, McKenna said. Theres a buzz around the city. Theyre excited for next year and the Leafs, and Im glad to be a part of it.Gavin McKenna arrives as centerpiece of Torontos new eraMcKennas excitement matches the organizations expectations. The Maple Leafs won the 2026 Draft Lottery despite only 8.5 percent odds and selected the Penn State star first overall after he recorded 51 points in 35 NCAA games.Gavin McKenna talks to NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and singer Justin Bieber after being selected with the first pick in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn ImagesEarlier this summer, McKenna outlined his goal during an appearance on SportsCenter. I think Im a player who makes all the players around me better, he said. Ill do whatever it takes to win a Stanley Cup. Thats all I want, to win a Stanley Cup in Toronto.Those comments reflect confidence without ignoring the challenge ahead. Toronto finished last in the Atlantic Division after a disappointing 2025-26 season and responded with major front-office and roster changes. General manager John Chayka added veterans while keeping Auston Matthews and William Nylander as the teams foundation.McKenna is expected to play meaningful minutes immediately, possibly alongside Matthews. His playmaking ability and maturity should strengthen Torontos top six from opening night.MORE: NHL analyst makes surprising Gavin McKenna vs. Auston Matthews predictionThe attention surrounding Toronto can overwhelm young players. McKenna, however, already appears comfortable with the pressure. His early connection with the city suggests he understands both the expectations and the opportunity waiting in one of hockeys biggest markets.