Maple Leafs’ Matthew Knies Can’t Wait to Hug Auston Matthews After Olympic Gold But Not Sure About the Canadian Teammates

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies is ready to celebrate Auston Matthews’s gold in person. The two share the top line in Toronto and have built strong chemistry over the last two seasons. Now, Knies wants to greet his captain after Team USA’s gold medal win at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Speaking before the NHL season resumes, Knies said he plans to give Matthews a big hug. Knies added that he is not sure if the Canadian players on the Maple Leafs will react the same way.

“I mean, I’m gonna give him a big hug and, and congratulate him,” Knies said. “I don’t know if the, the Canadian guys will do the same, but, um, we’re all so happy for him. It’s, it’s so cool, and it was so fun to watch.”

Knies also said he has not spoken to Matthews since the final. He wants to wait until Matthews returns to Toronto.

“I have not, no,” Knies admitted. “I’m waiting on him to come back here so I can do it in person. You know, I don’t think a phone call or text is gonna do the same, so.”

Matthews led Team USA during its gold medal run in Milano Cortina. He scored three goals and added four assists in six games. He handled tough matchups and played heavy minutes in the final against Canada. Although it was Jack Hughes who scored in overtime, Matthews’ leadership stood out.

Hughes scored the winning goal in the 2-1 overtime victory. Matthews was among the first players to celebrate off the bench. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck also played a key role in the win, making 41 crucial saves.

USA Forward Dylan Larkin’s Proud Message for Country

United States forward Dylan Larkin spoke with honesty after the gold medal win. Speaking to the media, he showed his pride in representing the United States.

“It’s such a great feeling to come home,” Larkin said on Monday. “Being back in the United States of America, you want to kiss the ground. We love our country.”