Matthew Schaefer Gives Gavin McKenna Advice About Toronto

In a recent Sportsnet interview, Matthew Schaefer basically gave Gavin McKenna the simplest (but probably the best) advice. Just enjoy the ride and keep working. It’s interesting to see one first-overall pick offering advice to another. Schaefer is coming off an impressive start with the New York Islanders, and he’s telling McKenna to soak it all in. As he noted, this is the kind of thing you never really stop remembering once you’re in it.

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Schaefer Spoke About Playing in Toronto

He talked about the whole Toronto experience, too. If you grew up in Toronto, you already know hockey is everywhere. It’s always been a hotspot for tournaments, and it’s just a constant grind. So landing there with that kind of spotlight is exciting. Still, you’ve gotta stay locked in. Schaefer’s point was not to get overwhelmed by the “big moment” stuff. Enjoy it with your family, feel the energy, then go do the work.

One of the coolest parts is how he tied it to development. Schaefer said that he started on the third pairing and worked his way up. And obviously Schaefer and McKenna are not identical players, but the message is the same. Confidence early matters, and if you can take the reps you get, believe in your game, and just keep pushing, you’ll rise. McKenna’s going to be learning how to fit in with new teammates and coaches, and Schaefer thinks that kind of support can really make a difference.

Schaefer Was Happy That McKenna Landed in Toronto

Schaefer also sounded genuinely happy for McKenna. He understands that, when you’re in that position, it’s a lot of pressure. But it’s also a dream. He mentioned the importance of not getting too far ahead of yourself right after the draft, because the real challenge is staying present once the season actually starts.

For Schaefer, watching McKenna is gonna be extra fun because Schaefer said they’re set to go head-to-head early this season. He’s expecting it to be a pretty big moment, especially since it’s in Toronto right away. He’s hoping McKenna gets a bunch of family there to help him enjoy the big spotlight and big opportunity.

The Bottom Line Is That McKenna Should Enjoy Playing with the Maple Leafs

So overall, the takeaway is pretty clear. McKenna should enjoy Toronto and enjoy the moment with his people. But he should keep putting in the work so he’s ready when it really counts.

Related: Why the 2026 Maple Leafs Could Be Better Than Anyone Expects