Why Justin Bieber announced Maple Leafs' No. 1 pick of Gavin McKenna at the 2026 NHL Draft

With the Toronto Maple Leafs owning the first pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, the NHL recruited one of the team's biggest fans to help announce the pick.

Pop star Justin Bieber was on hand in Buffalo to help the team announce that took Gavin McKenna with the first overall pick. In fact, Bieber has a long-winded opening diatribe as commissioner Gary Bettman gave way to Bieber.

The process of the selection was definitely different than usual, but it was a great way to incorporate Bieber into the event. Here's why Bieber made the pick.

MORE: Tracking every pick in the 2026 NHL Draft

Why Justin Bieber announced Maple Leafs' No. 1 pick

Bieber grew up in London, Ontario, Canada, which is just south of Toronto. Therefore, he is an avid Maple Leafs fan and grew up playing hockey before he decided to pursue singing full time.

When the Maple Leafs were ready to make the pick, Bieber serenaded the crowd with a special song before announcing Gavin McKenna's name.

Biebs making it official pic.twitter.com/AuvjdUC7ga

Over the years, Bieber has taken part in several NHL events, including the 2024 All-Star Game, where he served as an honorary captain and took part in warmups.

Is Justin Bieber a Maple Leafs' fan?

Bieber is a huge Maple Leafs fan and supported the team a huge amount over the years. LAst year, Bieber was behind the bench in Toronto's Game 7 against the Florida Panthers.

After that series loss, Bieber explained why he cared so much about the team.

"I don't remember a time in my life when I haven't been obsessed with the leafsssss," he said. "This year we made it farther than we have in so long and im happy about thatI can be patient cuz I know this is the team to do it."