‘I’ve loved my time in Toronto’: Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews shines on The Pat McAfee Show

The NHL’s attempt to get more exposure for its players took a big step on Wednesday when Toronto Maple Leafs’ forward Auston Matthews appeared on the popular ESPN program, The Pat McAfee Show.

The 2022 Hart Trophy Award winner talked about growing the game, USA Hockey, the personalities of hockey players and what his “welcome to the NHL” moment was.

On hockey growing in popularity

After being introduced, Matthews was asked by McAfee if he feels like there’s a resurgence in popularity for the game.

“Absolutely. I think year after year, it’s grown and being showcased a little bit more,” said the 26-year-old sniper. “I think having ESPN broadcast the games now…is great for the game and a great way to showcase some of the great players that we have.”

On the increase of U.S. hockey players

McAfee asked the two-time Maurice Rocket Richard Award winner how the U.S. can continue to create hockey superstars.

“I think they’re coming. We’ve got lots of great young guys like Jack Hughes. I think USA Hockey has come a long way,” said Matthews. “There’s a lot of young talent, a lot of guys who are coming through the ranks that are fun to watch, that are extremely talented and are taking the league by storm.”

On his time in Toronto and the pressure of being a Leaf

Matthews was asked about the pressures of playing for the Maple Leafs and if he was prepared going into his rookie season.

“I had an idea, a lot of people let me know how it’s going to be,” said the 2016 No. 1 overall pick. “It’s hard to realize it until you experience it. It comes up a lot, but I’ve definitely loved my time in Toronto. I love the fans. The city is great. I’ve been fortunate to play there and have great teammates along the way.”

On why hockey players are so guarded

He was asked why hockey players seem to be more guarded than other professional athletes.

“I think it can be a lot of different things. I think hockey players are pretty simple guys, pretty down to Earth,” said Matthews. “The sport is growing with it being on ESPN now and getting more recognition. At the same time, I don’t mind it being low key when you’re walking around.”

On his “Welcome to the NHL” moment

When asked by retired NFL free safety Darius Butler, a panelist on the show, what his “welcome to the NHL” moment was, Matthews gave a pretty humorous response.

“My first game, I scored four goals,” said Matthews. “I think that was a pretty good ‘welcome to the league’ moment.”

Matthews has seven goals and eight points through six games so far in 2023-24. Through eight seasons with the Maple Leafs, Matthews has 306 goals, 244 assists and 550 points in 487 games.

You can watch the full episode of The Pat McAfee Show here…