McMann touts Rielly’s hunger for results after veteran’s game-winning goal

The Toronto Maple Leafs got off to a strong start to the season on Wednesday night, defeating the Montreal Canadiens 5-2. While much has been made about the new look to the team this season, it was longest tenured Leaf Morgan Rielly who found the game-winner midway through the third period.

Of course, just because he’s a veteran doesn’t mean he can’t bring new energy and a new attitude to the new year. Just ask Leafs forward Bobby McMann, who had high praise for the 31-year-old defenceman after spending the summer training alongside him.

“He showed up every day, put the work in and continued to be a professional,” McMann said, speaking to media after Wednesday night’s win. “This far into his career he’s still hungry, he still wants it. He wants to win so bad and wants the best for himself, I can see that.”

Rielly made an impact on both ends of the ice Wednesday, finishing the night with a goal, an assist, and some key defensive shifts in his over 20 minutes played. Asked what he saw from Rielly in the team’s season opener, McMann noted that all-around game.

“A lot of pace, a lot of pushing the play,” he said. “He was pushing it from the back end. Jumping up in plays, being offensive, and being good on the D side as well.”

Leading Toronto’s blue line, the Maple Leafs held the Canadiens to two goals on Wednesday. Anthony Stolarz started between the pipes for the Maple Leafs and shared his faith in having Rielly in front of him.

“He’s confident with the puck, making plays at both ends of the ice,” Stolarz said. “I think he did a great job holding his gap, getting sticks on pucks, and moving guys in front. Obviously, we can all see the offensive talent there, and when he feels confident he can fly up the ice and join the rush like that. For him to get that goal it’s huge for us and huge for the team.”

Kicking off his 13th season in style, it’s clear it’s all respect for the veteran in the Maple Leafs locker room. As the team travels to Detroit to face the Red Wings this weekend, Rielly will look to keep working hard to drive results for this hungry team.