Leafs captain Auston Matthews makes his opinion of Nick Robertson crystal clear

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Oct 10, 2024 10:14 GMT

After the Toronto Maple Leafs beat the Detroit Red Wings 3-2, captain Auston Matthews praised Nick Robertson. Matthews talked about Robertson's hard work this season and said:

(10:12) "He’s definitely taken a step, and it’s great to see. He’s one of the hardest workers you'll see, and he cares so much."

Matthews also noticed a change in Robertson's attitude, saying:

"I just find he’s a little more relaxed this year."

"Sometimes when you want it so bad, it can almost be counterproductive, I believe. But he wants it, he works, he competes, and I feel like he has a different attitude this year in a positive way," Matthews added.

Robertson had a tough offseason but is back with the Maple Leafs now. He missed a practice due to a minor upper-body injury, but reporter David Alter later shared that Robertson returned for the morning skate. This is good news for fans as the season opener is on Oct. 9. Robertson's return suggests he will be ready to play.

Last season, Robertson scored 14 goals and had 27 points in 56 games. After asking for a trade, he signed a one-year deal with the Leafs and was promised more playing time this season.

Auston Matthews praises Steven Lorentz's performance in Maple Leafs' 3-2 preseason win

Auston Matthews scored two goals and assisted John Tavares as the Toronto Maple Leafs secured a 3-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings in their preseason finale. Steven Lorentz, who is on a professional tryout, also scored in the first period, improving his chances for a contract.

Matthews mentioned Lorentz's good attitude and all-around game, saying, via torontosun.com:

“A solid all-around game. Plays very heavy, very direct. He knows his role to a T, and he plays to it every night. It’s really important to have guys like that. He has made a great impression."

As the team prepares for the regular season opener against the Canadiens, there remain important roster decisions to be made. Joseph Woll performed well as the goalie, but Jake McCabe’s injury creates uncertainty on defense. The Leafs are also dealing with contract matters and depth chart issues as they get ready for the season.