Connor McDavid praises Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews - Image Source: GettyConnor McDavid praises Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews [Image Source: Getty]

Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid offered high praise for newly appointed Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews on Tuesday.

Speaking at the NHL’s North American Media Tour in Las Vegas, McDavid commended Matthews’ leadership abilities both on and off the ice.

“First and foremost, he’s an amazing player, great player, but he’s a great person, highly intelligent, loves the game, loves the Leafs,” McDavid said. “I think he’s a great captain.”

The Oilers center added that Matthews has the right mix of skill and charisma to represent Toronto and the Leafs organization.

“He’s definitely got a little bit more style than maybe I do, and Toronto’s a stylish city,” McDavid remarked. “I think he represents the city great and the team.”

Matthews was named the 26th captain in Maple Leafs history in August, taking over the role from John Tavares. Fresh from a standout season where he achieved record-breaking numbers of 69 goals and 107 points, Matthews is all set to guide the Leafs into deep playoff run.

Connor McDavid speaks about his life in Edmonton

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Connor McDavid also opened up about living in Edmonton, which is renowned for its winters and limited urban amenities.

“It’s not the beach and it’s not beautiful weather all the time, but we’re here to play hockey and we’re here to be a part of something and I think guys want to do that,” Connor McDavid said about Edmonton’s reputation.

While Edmonton can’t compete with places like Los Angeles or Miami in terms of climate and scenery, McDavid emphasized the underrated benefits of living in the city.

McDavid believes it’s easy to live in Edmonton. While there’s no long drives or traffic, though the construction could improve, it’s very convenient. It’s stress-free and ticks a lot of boxes for many people, explained McDavid.

McDavid, who married his fiancée Lauren Kyle in Ontario this past July, seems to have settled into life in Edmonton and is ready for the next season to begin.

Oilers are now in Edmonton for training camp and are looking to repeat another deep playoff run.