Bypassed in the last two drafts despite posting 77- and 97-point seasons (including 45 goals this past campaign) for the QMHL Moncton Wildcats, McKenna is attending this week's Flames Development Camp on an invite after accepting a similar audition from the Dallas Stars.
His teammate, frequent linemate and good pal Jakob Pelletier is indisputably one of the stars of the annual summer prospect show here, of course, having been selected first, 26th overall, by Calgary at the NHL Draft at Rogers Arena in Vancouver last month.
"We actually looked at (McKenna) as we went later in the draft," acknowledges Flames' GM Brad Treliving, as Day 2 of on-ice/conditioning draws to a close out at Winsport. "He's been through the draft as an overage now.
"We wanted to bring him in here and take a look. He's got a knack for doing the thing that's real hard - putting the puck in the net. And he's been productive his whole career.
"Obviously he and Jakob have a history together. So it'll be interesting to see him here this week."
McKenna watched the June 23 draft from in front of the family TV set in Summerside, PEI.
"I was thrilled for Pelts. No one deserves it more. I don't begrudge anyone getting picked.
"That was his opportunity. I need to find a different opportunity. That's all.
"We're all in the same boat, right?
"I consider him one of my best friends. Back in Moncton, we drove together, played together. He's an amazing kid. Calgary's lucky to have him.
"He's going to be one of those guys, when teams look back are going to be shaking their heads, saying: 'Why didn't we take that guy?!'
"He's got it all: Hockey sense, heart, speed, can score, penalty-kill. Flames fans should be really excited."