BEING NO. 1
Schaefer isn’t the only former No. 1 pick who knows the pressures that come with entering the NHL under high expectations. Because of this, NHL. com reached out to several past No. 1 selections to discuss how they cope with external pressure and their thoughts on how Mc Kenna will manage it in the spotlight of Toronto. Macklin Celebrini, San Jose Sharks (2024)“The attention is both a blessing and a curse. When you’re succeeding, they treat you like royalty. But when things go wrong, every mistake gets magnified even more. I trained with him this summer and got to know him a bit; I don’t think he’ll be impacted too much by it. Plus, he has plenty of teammates around to help him through.” Juraj Slafkovsky, Montreal Canadiens (2022)
“Feeling pressure from being chosen in a big hockey market? I’m not sure about that. Personally, I didn’t feel any pressure because I couldn’t understand French or what half the people were saying or writing about me. (Laughs). So I wasn’t aware if there was anything negative.” Owen Power, Buffalo Sabres (2021)
“For him, he’s clearly got the skills and talent needed. He just needs to get out there and enjoy it. After all, he’s playing in one of the best places for hockey, so I think he’ll do just fine.” Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils (2019)
“Of all the places he could’ve ended up, Toronto has to be one of the top spots. He has (Auston Matthews) to rely on for guidance. Nobody understands his situation better than ‘AMats’ since he was once that guy himself-being the first overall pick and having to lift them out of tough times through those playoff runs. That’s someone he’ll really be able to lean on. Sure, Toronto’s scrutiny is intense but there’s a reason he was picked first overall; he’s capable of handling it.” Auston Matthews, Toronto Maple Leafs (2016)
“We’re really thrilled to have him here. He’s an amazing player and an even better person. It’s great getting some time with him and getting acquainted. He’s going to shine in this league and contribute significantly to our team and organization.” Connor Mc David, Edmonton Oilers (2015)
“He’ll definitely have a lot on his plate in Toronto but seems ready for it. With Auston (Matthews) there as part of his support system along with many others around him, he should manage well.” John Tavares, New York Islanders (2009)
“From one game to another, you can see substantial growth in how quickly players adapt comfort-wise-his hockey IQ combined with puck skills and playmaking is outstanding too! That will keep improving at each stage for him.” Mats Sundin, Quebec Nordiques (1989)
“He’s joining a veteran squad here which makes a difference; often No. 1 picks enter teams deep into rebuilding phases filled with younger players alone in their experience level compared to pros like these guys who can share valuable lessons-it’s going to be beneficial for him.” Wendel Clark, Toronto Maple Leafs (1985)
“That first year between ages 18-20 involves significant personal growth-not just as a hockey player but also as an individual overall-so we’re not expecting Mc Kenna straightaway dominance right off the bat! If it happens great-but mainly we want him growing within our team culture while becoming both a better player and person.”
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