Auston Matthews reveals who has impressed him the most in training camp
Auston Matthews, along with his usual linemates Mitch Marner and Michael Bunting won't be playing in tonight's pre-season game against the Habs. All three of them skated with the Leafs' second group this morning. After a week in training camp, Matthews has had the opportunity to skate with all the newcomers, prospects and other Leafs hopefuls and when speaking with the media this morning noted three players stood out to him.
Matthews was asked who impressed him the most at camp so far to which he said Fraser Minten, Alex Steeves and Nicholas Aube-Kubel. The fact that Matthews recognized Minten as someone that has stood out shows how excellent the fresh 18-year-old's camp has been. Yet to sign an entry-level contract and likely to be sent back to the WHL this weekend, Minten has made a great impression on not only Matthews, but the Leafs' coaching staff as well.
Alex Steeves was thought to be one of the wild cards who could come into camp this year and steal a bottom six spot. The fact that Matthews recognizes his skill and work ethic in camp also bodes well for him, especially with the injuries up front to Tavares and Engvall. Again, if Matthews is impressed, it's safe to say you're having a pretty good camp. Steeves will look to build on his audition tonight when he slots into the lineup against the Habs.
As for Aube-Kubel, he brings a unique style of play to the Leafs that they haven't had much of since Matthews joined the team, so it's no surprise Matthews has been impressed with NAK. His speed, tenacity and "wrecking ball" mentality is hard to miss. He makes an impact with every shift. Given that NAK was skating in Matthews' group this morning, it could mean that he has solidified a roster spot already, which shouldn't surprise anyone. The Stanley Cup winner has a lot to offer the Leafs and is likely to bounce around between the top six and bottom six until Sheldon Keefe finds the right place for him.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 28 | 384 ANSWERS Auston Matthews reveals who has impressed him the most in training camp Do you think Fraser Minten is already NHL ready? | ||
| Yes | 101 | 26.3 % |
| No | 153 | 39.8 % |
| The last thing we need to do is rush him | 130 | 33.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
