Brad Treliving reveals just how dedicated Auston Matthews is to mastering his craft
When Brad Treliving took over for Kyle Dubas as the GM of the Leafs, his first order of business, or at least the first thing on his to-do list, was to begin building a relationship with Auston Matthews in the hopes that he would be able to get him to sign a long-term extension with the Leafs. In the first few weeks of his new job, Treliving found himself on a plane headed to Arizona, where Matthews spends his off-seasons, to meet with the Leafs superstar and get to know him.
In a sit-down with The Athletic's Jonas Siegel, Treliving was asked about his meetings with Matthews this summer, what he learned about him and if anything surprised him. Treliving stated that Matthews' off-ice work ethic and how scheduled he is, is what stood out to him most.
As Treliving said, it's no surprise that Matthews' off-ice work ethic is the way it is, but to many, it's probably surprising just how strict he is with scheduling to ensure he doesn't miss an opportunity to train and better himself. Following what is considered a "down" season where he battled injuries and only scored 40 goals, the two-time Rocket Richard winner will be looking to reclaim his title from Connor McDavid and help the Leafs embark on a much deeper playoff run. With the distraction of an extension behind him, and a new 4-year deal kicking in next summer, Matthews is primed to have another record-setting season.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 26 | 758 ANSWERS Brad Treliving reveals just how dedicated Auston Matthews is to mastering his craft Is Auston Matthews going to be the next captain of the Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes, without a doubt | 486 | 64.1 % |
| No, I think Tavares re-signs and remains captain | 127 | 16.8 % |
| No, I think Rielly gets the C next | 116 | 15.3 % |
| Other | 29 | 3.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
