Hughes brothers shut down reporter in support of Auston Matthews

Jack Hughes and Quinn Hughes held a press conference alongside Auston Matthews after their Olympic gold-medal win. When a reporter asked Matthews about returning to Toronto and the NHL, the Hughes brothers stepped in with a perfect response.

Matthews is currently in his tenth NHL season and has been the face of the modern-day Toronto Maple Leafs for nearly a decade. Since the 2024–25 season, he has also served as team captain. Despite his success, the Maple Leafs have struggled to make deep playoff runs during his tenure.

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Asked Auston Matthews about Toronto

In fact, the team has won only two playoff series since Matthews joined—something the Toronto media frequently points out. Even during Sunday’s press conference, shortly after Matthews had captained Team USA to its first Olympic gold in 46 years at the Winter Olympics, a reporter brought the focus back to the Maple Leafs.

Hughes brothers stepped in

The reporter asked Matthews how he could use this Olympic experience in leading Toronto. Matthews began to answer by saying he simply wanted to enjoy the moment—but he was quickly backed up by the Hughes brothers.
“It doesn’t matter what anyone says now—Auston Matthews is a winner,” Luke said.
”Yeah, that’s what the media in Toronto should be talking about,” Quinn added.
You can watch the full press conference below.

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