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Gretzky: McDavid can handle transition to NHL

Wayne Gretzky doesn't expect Connor McDavid to struggle in the NHL despite extremely high expectations, having turned pro at 18 after spending three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League.

"Going right from junior to the NHL? That's a big step for Connor," Gretzky told the Edmonton Journal earlier this week. "But he's the one guy who can handle it. He'll be fine. With his speed and his shot and his creativity and his hockey knowledge, that's as good as anybody."

McDavid had 44 goals and 120 points with the Eerie Otters of the OHL last season and had 21 goals and 49 points in 20 playoff games.