Every young hockey player arrives in the NHL with a reputation. Some have to prove they belong. Others, especially a first-overall pick like Gavin McKenna, have to live up to expectations before they’ve had much time to figure out the league.

That’s a tough way to start a career. In Toronto, where every shift can become a talking point, McKenna found that out pretty quickly. After playing only about six minutes in the loss to Buffalo, questions came fast. Was he being used properly? Was something wrong? Had the Maple Leafs made a mistake?

A Couple of Games Later, McKenna Scored His First NHL Game-Winner

A few days later, he played almost 18 minutes and scored his first NHL game-winning goal. Funny how quickly the conversation can change.

I wouldn’t make too much of either game on its own. The six-minute night didn’t mean McKenna couldn’t play, just as one winning goal doesn’t mean he’s suddenly ready to carry the Maple Leafs. What matters is what happens in between those moments. He’s learning the pace of the NHL, figuring out how little time and space he has, and discovering that offensive talent alone won’t earn a young player every opportunity.

Player and Coach Have to Learn to Trust Each Other

That’s where trust comes in. Coach Jim Hiller needs to know McKenna can make responsible decisions without the puck, defend when the situation calls for it, and be dependable when the game gets tight. Those things take time. They aren’t always as exciting as a goal, but they’re part of becoming a complete player.

The comparison with Ivar Stenberg is worth watching, too. McKenna might have the higher offensive ceiling, but Stenberg has drawn praise for his competitiveness, defensive commitment, and developing two-way game. Stenberg may become the more complete player. Perhaps McKenna’s offence gives him the greater impact. We don’t know yet, and that’s the point.

These two will be compared because they went first and second in the draft. That’s inevitable. But they don’t have to follow the same path, and neither needs to win that comparison in October.

McKenna’s Goal Was Encouraging, But Confidence Could Lift Him Further

McKenna’s game-winner was an encouraging sign. He showed patience, found a little space, and finished. Now the challenge is to build on it. And, from what we’ve seen, he has the confidence to do just that.

The Maple Leafs have invested a great deal in this young player. The best way to protect that investment isn’t to rush him or panic after a difficult night. It’s to give him clear expectations, opportunities to learn, and enough time to grow into the player Toronto believes he can become.

Related: Vinni Lettieri’s Maple Leafs Call-Up Is Worth Celebrating