Article content

[np_storybar title=”Matthews smooth both on and off ice” link=””]

Say this much for Auston Matthews: for someone so young, he’s certainly exhibiting veteran savvy when it comes to answering questions about Toronto.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Former top pick Joe Thornton has some advice for Auston Matthews on 'whirlwind' ride to NHL draft Back to video

With the Maple Leafs holding the first overall pick in the upcoming draft June 24-25 in Buffalo, Matthews has been peppered with queries about potentially playing in T.O. ever since the lottery balls rolled in Toronto’s favour.

After addressing the media about the subject during the draft combine in Buffalo last week, it was the same old thing here in San Jose when the top prospects congregated for Game 4 of the Stanley Cup final between the Sharks and Penguins Monday night.

And, to his credit, Matthews once again provided all the right answers.

“Obviously, it’s the hockey mecca of the world,” Matthews said of Toronto. “It seems to be the centre of the hockey universe. They’re obviously very passionate fans. As a hockey market.