Date: November 5, 2025
Source: Toronto Maple Leafs (YouTube)
After the Maple Leafs’ 5–3 win over the Utah Mammoth, Auston Matthews discussed the team’s strong start, John Tavares’ 500th goal celebration, Matias Maccelli’s impact against his former team, and Scott Laughton’s return to the lineup.
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On the Team’s Effort and Start
“I thought we competed really well and even going down after one period, I thought we had a good period. Lots of really good things. Just felt like we had good rhythm tonight — good flow. All four lines were playing hard, competing, creating chances, defending well. Good to get that two points.”
On John Tavares’ 500th Goal Celebration
“It’s a huge honor to play with a guy like that who’s accomplished so much in his career and as good of a person as he is a player and teammate. I can’t say enough great things about him and the kind of professional and person he is. It’s always fun to celebrate people like that — really nice moment before the game and he played great for us again tonight. Another big goal.”
On Matias Maccelli’s Goal Against His Former Team
“Yeah, it means a lot. We were giving it to him before the game, so we knew he was going to be ready for this one. He was all over tonight — slippery, made a great pass to me on my goal, and the puck was following him all around. Big goal for us there, and I’m sure that one feels good, especially against his old team.”
On John Tavares’ Consistency
“I don’t think it’s anything we haven’t seen. Just his consistency — the way he hangs onto pucks, his strength, his shot. He’s a very cerebral player, smart, makes great plays. He’s a complete player. Even at the age he’s at, the way he takes care of himself — he’s a true professional.”
On Scott Laughton’s Return
“I thought he was great tonight. That line was really good. He didn’t look like he missed a beat — it’s not easy to come back after a month off and get right into it. He’s a big part of our team, has a lot of responsibility, and he looked really good.”
On Matias Maccelli and the New Additions
“I think he’s adjusted great and fit right in. All the new guys — it’s always different coming to a new team, but they’ve made themselves at home. We’ve got a great group of guys and we’re trying to lift everybody up and get guys involved. From the jump, all those guys have fit in great and taken on their roles and responsibilities.”
On His Own Rhythm and Hot Streak
“Yeah, it feels like it. I think the last week or so, where my game’s been at — getting good opportunities, good chances. Just want to keep that going, play well defensively, be responsible. Going up against good teams and top lines, you just want to be good on both ends of the ice, get opportunities, and capitalize on them.”
On Anthony Stolarz’s Attempt at an Empty Net Goal
“I thought that was the right play. Up two, we were giving it to him — he had all the time and just didn’t get it in the air. But up two, why not?”
Pulse Takeaway
Matthews praised the Leafs’ complete effort in their win over Utah, highlighting balanced play across all four lines and celebrating John Tavares’ milestone. He credited Matias Maccelli’s strong showing against his former team and Scott Laughton’s seamless return, while noting his own confidence and rhythm returning to form with goals in three straight games.
Quotes from Auston Matthews via Toronto Maple Leafs (YouTube). Used for analysis and commentary.
Quotes have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
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