The Daily: McKenna Shows It’s A New World; York Re-Signs

The Gavin McKenna decision to play for Penn State next season is further confirmation of how much NCAA rule changes and NIL money is changing the landscape for high profile NHL prospects.

McKenna projects to be the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL draft. Last season, he played for Medicine Hat  in the Western Hockey League. In the past, that would have rendered him ineligible for college hockey. However, new NCAA rules now allow CHL players to play in the college ranks.

That opens the door for McKenna to attend college at least for a school year and presumably collect NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) money that top athletes can receive.

Elite Prospect’s Cam Robinson, who broke the story, points out that OHL standout Luke Misa and 2025 first-round pick Jackson Smith (Columbus Blue Jackets) are also headed for Penn State.

In addition to the opportunity to earn NIL money, many of the college programs offer first-rate training facilities. College programs have always sold the idea that college programs offers elite players a chance to compete against older competition, instead of junior-age players.

But allowing CHL players to maintain their college eligibility is the real game changer because youngsters no longer have to decide their future at 16.  It used to be as soon as you played in the CHL you eliminated the college option.

NIL money also gives players a chance to earn money if they want to stay longer in college.  Detroit’s premium goaltending prospect Trey Augustine of Michigan State is playing a third season in college because he wants another crack at winning a national championship.

NIL  money makes it easier for some college athletes to make those decisions.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Former NHL goalie Michael Leighton is hired as Detroit’s new goalie coach.

Pittsburgh writer Dan Kingerski believes Penguins forward Rickard Rakell is a perfect trade fit for the Detroit Red Wings. He scored 35 goals last season.

No Red Wings’ NHL Prospect Tournament in Traverse City this fall.

Red Wings Extra

Former Red Wings Joe Veleno is still looking for NHL work.  The Montreal Canadiens are not going to sign him.  But other teams reportedly interested. The Seattle Kraken bought out his contract after acquiring him from the Chicago Blackhawks.

Contrary to reports, I have been told that the @CanadiensMTL did NOT make a formal contract offer to Joe Veleno.

Last week, Joe Veleno's representation, had talks with at least 3 teams: Colorado, Montreal & Nashville.

Told the Canadiens staff studied his game, discussed it &…

— Tony Marinaro (@TonyMarinaro) July 7, 2025

Hockey Now Network

Colorado: The Avalanche used Charlie Coyle to solve their Miles Wood issue. Colorado Avalanche. 

Philadephia: Flyers re-sign RFA defenseman Cam York to a five-year deal.  Philadelphia Flyers.

Pittsburgh: Penguins first round pick Bill Zonnon was one of the winners in the Penguins’ Development Camp. Pittsburgh Penguins. 

Vegas: Hannah Kirkell writes about the Jack Eichel contract situation in conjunction with what the Golden Knights have done this summer. Vegas Golden Knights.