McKenna, who turns 18 in December, is regarded as a generational talent and has for the past two years been projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL draft.

The Penguins have signed 2025 first-round draft pick Ben Kindel to a three-year, entry-level contract. Kindel, 18, was the Penguins' first of three first-round picks at the 2025 NHL Draft last month. He is the Penguins' highest selection since 2012, when Pittsburgh drafted defenseman Derrick Pouliot No. 8 overall.

All of that led to an underwhelming first day of NHL free agency. Nikolaj Ehlers, a skilled and speedy winger, is the only notable name left on the market. Hockey fans were left wanting more, and they just might get it in the 2026 offseason.