Justin Bieber made headlines with his surprise appearance at the 2026 NHL Draft, held on Friday, 26 June, where he proudly announced the Toronto Maple Leafs’ first overall pick. This exciting event took place in Buffalo, New York, and Bieber wasted no time expressing his enthusiasm for his home team, the Maple Leafs.
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As he stepped onto the stage, the 32-year-old pop star greeted the audience with fervour, declaring, “What’s going on, Buffalo? What’s up, Toronto?” His energy resonated with the crowd, which responded with cheers and applause, creating an electric atmosphere. In a moment of personal reflection, Bieber shared, “Man, what an incredible night… the child in me is ecstatic right now. I’ve been a Leafs fan since I was just a little boy.”
The night was not just about Bieber’s celebrity status; it was a significant occasion for the Maple Leafs, as they prepared to make a potentially career-defining selection. Joined by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Bieber took the role of the evening’s announcer with enthusiasm. After a warm embrace with Bettman, he presented the Maple Leafs’ top pick, confirming that forward Gavin McKenna, an 18-year-old star from Penn State, would be joining the team.
“Mr. McKenna, we would like to draft you to the Toronto Maple Leafs,” said Bieber, as he brought the crowd to a new level of excitement. McKenna had recently finished his freshman season at Penn State, earning accolades, including being named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year due to his outstanding performance, where he ranked fifth in NCAA scoring. The night marked a historic moment as McKenna became the highest NHL draft pick ever from Yukon, Canada.
Highlighting McKenna’s roots, Bieber’s hit song “Yukon” played in the background as the young player was presented with his new Maple Leafs jersey emblazoned with the number 26. McKenna joined Bieber and Bettman for photographs, a moment captured for posterity and celebrated on social media platforms.
However, the evening was not without controversy. Earlier this year, in February, McKenna had been arrested and charged with four counts of aggravated assault following an altercation with a 21-year-old man. Just days later, the felony charges were dropped, yet he still faces a misdemeanor simple assault charge in addition to charges for harassment and disorderly conduct. A pre-trial conference regarding these matters has been scheduled for 13 July, as indicated by court records.
Away from the NHL Draft, Bieber remains a dedicated Maple Leafs fan, even involving his family in his passion for hockey. He has been sharing his love for the sport with his young son, Jack Blues Bieber, who he shares with wife Hailey Baldwin. The singer previously delighted fans by posting a photograph of Jack wearing a miniature Maple Leafs jersey during a family vacation in June 2025, with young Jack showcasing his devotion to the team’s captain, Auston Matthews.
The NHL community has embraced Bieber’s family ties to hockey enthusiastically. Matthews himself responded to Jack’s homage with a heartfelt “💙” on social media. The Maple Leafs recognised this moment too, expressing their appreciation in the comments section of Jack’s adorable photos.
As the NHL Draft unfolded, Justin Bieber’s involvement not only thrilled fans but also reinforced the intersection of sports and celebrity culture. His presence highlighted the excitement surrounding the Maple Leafs and their promising new addition, Gavin McKenna, while also reminding everyone that the world of professional hockey can intersect with personal stories of passion and ambition.
As fans in Toronto and beyond celebrate this new chapter for the team, it remains to be seen how McKenna will perform in the upcoming season amidst his legal challenges. Bieber’s heartfelt support may well inspire many to rally behind the young player as he embarks on his professional hockey journey.