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'He's Got Some Swag': Maple Leafs Teammates And Jim Hiller React To Gavin McKenna Not Taking Optional Skate Ahead Of NHL Debut

Rookie Gavin McKenna is turning heads ahead of his career-opening contest for the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Montreal Canadiens. Choosing to skip the optional morning skate before his first appearance in the league drew praise and amusement from teammates and coaching staff alike.

Veteran blueliner Chris Tanev and head coach Jim Hiller both pointed to the youngster's immense self-assurance as the driving force behind his choice. While Hiller opted to keep the teenager off the primary power-play unit for the time being to shield him from undue pressure, management remains impressed by how quickly he has integrated into the squad.

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