Jack Roslovic might be the answer to Auston Matthews' rough season, and it's not a coincidence at all.
The 29-year-old American forward signed a two year deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs this summer, and the chance to skate alongside Matthews genuinely factored into that decision.
The two go back over a decade, having found real success together in the U.S. National Development Program.
"I talked to him a lot, and he was fantastic," Roslovic said of Matthews on the Leafs Morning Take podcast Monday.
"For finding a place to live, things to do around the city. He even introduced me to the staff and people around the team to give me a preview of what it's like before I even showed up," Roslovic added.
"It's always useful to keep relationships with the guys, just in case you end up on the same team eventually," he said.
Roslovic made clear he's hoping to reunite with his old friend on the ice sooner rather than later.
Roslovic's speed fits exactly what Jim Hiller wants
"We kept talking over the years and we're still really good friends," Roslovic said. "It's great to have the chance to come play with someone you've had success with in the past. We're hoping to keep that going, find a way to bring that back quickly."
Roslovic posted 21 goals and 36 points in 69 games with the Edmonton Oilers last season, describing himself as a fast, smart player who can both distribute and finish.
That profile lines up well with new head coach Jim Hiller, who's talked about wanting more speed and tempo in Toronto's attack.
Matthews was limited to 27 goals and 53 points in 60 games last season, a real step back by his own standards.
The arrival of highly touted rookie Gavin McKenna could help spark a bounce-back season for the captain, but Roslovic's presence shouldn't be underestimated either.
A familiar linemate with real chemistry already built in is exactly the kind of low-cost variable that can matter more than it looks on paper, especially for a captain trying to shake off a difficult year.
Whether Hiller actually pairs the two together right away remains to be seen, but both players are clearly hoping it happens fast.
Will playing with Jack Roslovic help Auston Matthews bounce back this season?
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