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Gavin McKenna highlights learning from Auston Matthews ahead of rookie season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 2, 2026, 11:27 AM

Last updated Aug 2, 2026

Gavin McKenna highlights learning from Auston Matthews ahead of rookie season

Summary

Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna discussed his relationship with team captain Auston Matthews as he prepares for his first NHL season. McKenna, the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, acknowledged Matthews' status as the team's cornerstone and praised his openness in sharing advice. McKenna emphasized the importance of navigating the media in Toronto, especially after Matthews faced scrutiny during the previous season, which included a career-low in goals. The Maple Leafs have made significant offseason moves, including signing goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky and hiring head coach Jim Hiller, aiming to return to playoff contention after missing the postseason last year.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Gavin McKenna expresses high expectations for his rookie season.
•McKenna draws comparisons to NHL talent Macklin Celebrini.
•Matthews shares insights on handling media scrutiny with McKenna.
•The Maple Leafs signed goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky this offseason.
•Head coach Jim Hiller aims to improve the team's playoff chances.

Latest Updates

11:27 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs’ Gavin McKenna’s Straightforward Statement on Auston Matthews

What they're saying

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Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna is making a straightforward statement on Auston Matthews. The post Maple Leafs’ Gavin McKenna’s Straightforward Statement on Auston Matthews appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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