Justin Bieber announced the Toronto Maple Leafs' first overall pick at the 2026 NHL Draft on Friday at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. The pick was Gavin McKenna, a 21-year-old prospect from Whitehorse, Yukon.
"Mr. McKenna, we would like to draft you to the Toronto Maple Leafs," Bieber said from the draft stage.
McKenna walked to the stage to Bieber's song "Yukon"—named after his hometown. During his post-draft interview with Bieber, McKenna was visibly moved. "This is nuts," he said, his voice shaking. "Obviously, I just want to start by thanking my family. I love you guys I wouldn't be here without you guys."
He acknowledged his roots: "For all the Yukoners at home, that song is for you. Thanks, Justin. I'm so grateful, I've got no words right now."
McKenna played college hockey at Penn State. Bieber, a lifelong Leafs fan, said the moment was difficult to absorb. "As a fan, having the Leafs get the first overall pick for the first time in a decade was hard to put in words, honestly," Bieber said.
