Maple Leafs’ Gavin McKenna faces early criticism over practice absences

Gavin McKenna has faced early criticism after missing three optional skates during his first week with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The 18-year-old rookie has explained that his absences were about managing his body, not avoiding work. However, NHL analyst Sid Seixeiro believes the situation deserves scrutiny.

McKenna previously explained why he missed a morning skate before a back-to-back. “It wasn’t a swagger thing,” McKenna told Mark Masters. “It was just trying to keep my body fresh.”

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That explanation did not satisfy Seixeiro. The Toronto host pointed out that McKenna is only 18 and has now missed three optional sessions.

“I do not believe a kid this young should be missing morning skates and practices unless there’s something physically wrong,” Seixeiro said on The Sid Seixeiro Show.

Seixeiro also noted that several key Maple Leafs attended the latest optional practice. Captain Auston Matthews, John Tavares, Easton Cowan and other regulars were among those on the ice.

Gavin McKenna’s preparation is already under the microscope

The criticism comes during a difficult start for McKenna. The first overall pick has yet to record a point through his first three NHL games.

Seixeiro believes that makes McKenna’s practice decisions more noticeable. “He does not have a point yet in the National Hockey League,” he said. “You can tell him to be at practice.”

The comments also highlight the different expectations facing a highly touted rookie in Toronto. McKenna entered the NHL with enormous attention after becoming the first overall pick.

At the same time, optional skates remain optional, and McKenna has stressed that his approach is focused on recovery. That distinction matters when assessing his early habits.

Seixeiro has established a simple standard for the Maple Leafs. “If Matthews is at least at practice, everyone should be at practice unless you’re hurt,” he said.

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McKenna will ultimately be judged by his performance, not attendance at optional sessions. Still, the discussion shows how fast expectations can rise around Toronto’s newest star.

The Maple Leafs need patience with McKenna while also helping him understand the standards of an NHL dressing room.

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