Gavin McKenna Moves to Third Line After Stellar Performance

Gavin McKenna is set to play on the third line after a standout performance where he scored his first NHL goal and point during a comeback victory against the Nashville Predators. The Toronto Maple Leafs rookie will join Nick Paul and Colton Sissons for Thursday's game in Las Vegas.

McKenna's goal came from an assist by Auston Matthews, contributing to the team's 5-4 win. Coach Jim Hiller decided to move McKenna down the lineup to maintain the momentum from the previous game, promoting Easton Cowan to play alongside John Tavares and William Nylander.

Hiller aims to increase Cowan's ice time, as he has been a key player for the Leafs. The coach noted Cowan's potential to add grit and offensive capability to the line. Meanwhile, McKenna has shown impressive speed, ranking high in speed bursts among NHL forwards, and is being positioned to maximize scoring opportunities.