John Chayka on observing Auston Matthews’ leadership first hand: “I probably didn’t fully appreciate the type of leader he is… It’s almost a bit of a magnetic pull that he has” mapleleafshotstove.com

Maple Leafs executive John Chayka said he had not fully appreciated Auston Matthews’ leadership until working with him daily, describing how the captain brings players and staff together through personal conversations. In an interview with Mats Sundin before Toronto’s game against Nashville, Chayka also praised Chris Tanev’s defensive impact, while Sundin highlighted Matthews’ on-ice production and leadership by example.