Toronto Maple Leafs first overall pick Gavin McKenna believes he would be a good fit on the wing of captain Auston Matthews.
"To play with a player like that, of that caliber, would be pretty special," McKenna told reporters Friday. "I think we would suit each other pretty well. Him being an older veteran guy, I think I can learn a lot from him. Being the captain of the Leafs, just a lot to learn from him. He's an amazing player, and if I get that opportunity, I'm not gonna try and waste it."
McKenna noted he's played "a little bit" with Matthews this summer at informal sessions.
"He's unreal. He's fun to watch," McKenna said. "To play with him, he's super smart, and obviously he's got that release, so you kinda want to give him the puck when he's open and hope you get an assist."
McKenna is Toronto's first No. 1 pick since selecting Matthews atop the 2016 draft.
The 18-year-old recorded 15 goals and 51 points in 35 games last season at Penn State. McKenna also had four goals and 14 points in seven contests with Canada at the world juniors en route to a bronze medal.
The Whitehorse, Yukon, native will live with veteran John Tavares during his rookie campaign.
McKenna practiced with the Maple Leafs' prospect tournament roster Friday but won't play in either of Toronto's games in Gatineau this weekend.
"I was just doing whatever the team wanted me to do," McKenna said. "Obviously, it would be fun to play some games, but if they think me staying here is best, then I'm OK with that. I'll listen to what they want."
Toronto opens preseason play Sept. 19 against the Montreal Canadiens.
