Connor McDavid Praises Auston Matthews: ‘He Loves the Game, Loves the Leafs, and Is a Great Captain
In a sport where rivalries run deep, respect between hockey’s elite players remains constant. One such example is Edmonton Oilers’ captain Connor McDavid’s recent praise for Auston Matthews, captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite the competitive nature of their respective teams, McDavid didn’t hold back in acknowledging Matthews’ leadership and passion for the game.
“He loves the game, loves the Leafs,” McDavid said in a post-game interview. “I think he’s a great captain.” McDavid, often regarded as one of the best players in the world, has immense respect for Matthews’ dedication to the Toronto Maple Leafs, a franchise rich in history and pressure.
Matthews, known for his incredible scoring ability and his calm demeanor on and off the ice, has shouldered the weight of leading one of hockey’s most storied franchises. Since being named captain in 2019, Matthews has been tasked with bringing the Maple Leafs back to glory. Although the team has faced its share of ups and downs in playoff performances, Matthews’ individual talent and his leadership qualities have never been in doubt.
For McDavid to speak so highly of Matthews is a testament to the mutual respect that exists among top-tier players in the NHL. Both superstars were drafted first overall in their respective years — McDavid in 2015, and Matthews in 2016 — and since then, they have often been compared for their exceptional skill sets and impact on the league.
Matthews’ leadership has also been recognized beyond his contributions on the ice. He has been a pillar of the community in Toronto, using his platform to support various charitable causes and giving back to the fans who support him and the Maple Leafs. His deep connection to the franchise and its history has made him a beloved figure in Toronto, despite the high expectations and challenges of captaining the Leafs.
In contrast, McDavid’s tenure as captain of the Oilers has similarly been defined by outstanding personal success and the pressure to lead Edmonton to greater playoff triumphs. The parallels between McDavid and Matthews’ careers are undeniable, making McDavid’s comments even more meaningful.
As the NHL season continues, both McDavid and Matthews will undoubtedly lead their teams with their characteristic passion and skill. For Matthews, the endorsement from a peer as respected as McDavid is just further validation of the qualities that have made him an exceptional captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
