Connor McDavid has achieved almost everything during his NHL career, but returning to Toronto still carries a different meaning for the Edmonton Oilers captain.
The superstar forward grew up in the Greater Toronto Area and supported the Maple Leafs as a child. Playing at Scotiabank Arena also gives him an opportunity to reconnect with friends and family.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s matchup against Toronto, McDavid explained why the city remains special.
“It’s always exciting. Obviously, a lot of friends and family come to town. Obviously, where I grew up, so it’s always exciting,” McDavid said.
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He also admitted that playing in Toronto gives him extra motivation, regardless of how many times he visits.
“Toronto is a place where you get a little more juice. Doesn’t matter how many times you come back here. It’s always a special building to me,” he added.
Connor McDavid still calls it Hockey Night in Canada
McDavid also reflected on growing up watching the Maple Leafs and following Saturday night hockey broadcasts.
“I was a Leafs fan growing up as a kid, you know this building means obviously a lot to me,” he said.
Saturday’s matchup carries another familiar tradition for the Edmonton captain. The game takes place on Hockey Night in Canada, a broadcast he has followed since childhood.
“Although I’m not sure we’re allowed to say that anymore, but it’ll always be Hockey Night in Canada to me,” McDavid said.
The 29-year-old returns to Toronto in outstanding form. He has recorded 49 points through 20 games, including 11 goals and 38 assists.
His point streak has also continued through every game this season. Edmonton enters the matchup with a 14-3-3 record and three consecutive victories.
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Toronto faces a very different situation. The Maple Leafs sit at 8-11-2 after five consecutive losses. Meanwhile, for McDavid, Saturday offers more than another regular-season game. It brings him back to the city where his hockey journey began, with familiar faces watching from the stands.
