Gavin McKenna has been playing with John Tavares and William Nylander during Toronto Maple Leafs training camp, and Auston Matthews has some thoughts.
Going into his rookie season, there was tons of speculation surrounding Gavin McKenna and where he would fit in the Maple Leafs' lineup.
There were hopeful fans who wanted to see him play on the top line with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies. However, for now, McKenna is being placed on the second line with William Nylander and John Tavares. Early videos out of training camp suggest this partnership is proving to be fruitful.
As for Auston Matthews, he has given his take on McKenna's first few days with the team, and as you are about to read, he's a believer in the rookie's hype.
Auston Matthews talks Gavin McKenna
Matthews has seen just how well McKenna is connecting with his new linemates. In fact, he sees a ton of confidence in McKenna, and cannot wait to watch more.
That line (McKenna, Tavares, Nylander) seems to have connected pretty well over the last few days… I think he's fitting in really well with those guys and fit in really well with the team so far and seems very comfortable… he knows he's a great player and that he can play at this level too
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Of course, Matthews and the rest of the Leafs fanbase will get to see McKenna in action this weekend as the team takes on the Montreal Canadiens in split-squad action.
Half of the team will play the Habs in Toronto, while the other half will play in Montreal. Overall, this will be a difficult situation for the coaches to handle, especially as they attempt to evaluate prospects who are on the bubble.
Regardless, this will be a great opportunity for McKenna to show what he is capable of playing against NHL competition. This is the true test before he officially embarks on his rookie campaign.
Do you believe Auston Matthews is right about Gavin McKenna?
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