Gavin McKenna excited to play with Matthews

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.