Toronto Maple Leafs winger Zach Hyman would no doubt enjoy lining up next to free-agent signing John Tavares, but knows nothing can be taken for granted.
Leafs coach Mike Babcock theorized during Tavares’ introductory press conference that Hyman would join Tavares and Mitch Marner as a line, while Patrick Marleau would take over Hyman’s frequent spot alongside Auston Matthews and William Nylander.
Hyman, who had 15 goals and 40 points this past season, joined Sportsnet’s Starting Lineup on Friday to discuss his newest teammate.
“It’s definitely exciting,” said Hyman. “It’s exciting for all of us obviously to add John to our mix.”
The 26-year-old has played throughout the Leafs lineup during his two-plus seasons in the NHL. It’s his reliability in his own end and strong skating that likely makes him such an appealing linemate for a Marner-Tavares combination.
“To have the possibility of playing with [Tavares] would be really cool, he’s obviously an amazing player,” said Hyman. “It’s still July [though] so a lot can change until then obviously.”
You can listen to his full interview below, where he discusses his new children’s book, going to school at Michigan University, and more:
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