Auston Matthews Gives Maple Leafs Fans a Peek Behind the Curtain, Shares Summer Photos

With training camp right around the corner, the Toronto Maple Leafs are signalling the end of summer and the start of a new season.

For NHL players, the offseason is often a balance of intense training and much-needed downtime, something players do not often get during the season.

For Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews, this summer was no different. Not only did he spend time getting back to full health, but he also enjoyed time with family, friends, and his dog, Felix.

As shared by Auston Matthews on his Instagram:

Matthews' rest and recovery appear to have paid off, as many of his new teammates are already impressed by his skillset heading into camp.

One notable absence from his Instagram posts, however, was any sign of former teammate Mitch Marner. In past summers, Matthews and Marner were often spotted together, but with Marner now a member of the Vegas Golden Knights, their friendship will naturally take on a different rhythm.

Matthews admittedly spoke on how him and his teammates will miss Marner on and off the ice.

Looking ahead, the Leafs will lean on Matthews, not just for his leadership and scoring touch, but also to help fill the void left by Marner's departure.

With a clean bill of health and a summer full of positive memories, Matthews seems poised and energized for what could be a massive season for both himself and the Leafs.