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The Toronto Maple Leafs began a new era over the summer after naming Auston Matthews their latest captain.
Matthews becomes the 26th player in team history to wear the "C" on his sweater.
However, his season has started with a bit of a hiccup. Matthews left practice today after approximately 25 minutes and didn't return. According to coach Craig Berube, Matthews is dealing with an "upper body" issue. The good news is the team doesn't believe the ailment is serious.
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"It's nothing serious," Berube said. "He should be fine."
Matthews tallied a goal while playing on a line with Matthew Knies and Mitch Marner during Toronto's 6-5 exhibition loss on Sunday against the Ottawa Senators.
He's coming off a season where he tallied 69 goals, the highest total for any NHL player in a season since Steven Stamkos netted 60 during the 2011-12 campaign.
Matthews has considerable responsibility as Leaf's captain
It's no secret the Maple Leafs have endured a lack of postseason success during the last two decades.
They've advanced past the opening round only once since 2004, and rampant speculation surrounds the futures of key players like John Tavares and Mitch Marner.
However, Matthews has embraced his new captain role and the responsibilities it entails.
"I got chills, honestly. I'm so honored and humbled since being drafted here eight years ago. You realize how special it is to play for Toronto, to wear the Maple Leaf on your chest every single night. It just means the world to do that."
"To have support from Johnny, my teammates, our staff, ownership, my family, it just means the world to me. I look forward to continuing our journey of bringing the Stanley Cup back to Toronto."
"It's such an honor to represent the Maple Leafs and put on that jersey every night. To be the captain is truly special."
Matthews and the Leafs face the Senators again this evening at the Canadian Tire Centre. They then return home to host the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday.
