"They have good depth. They're really good on the power play. They're a big team that protects pucks. They are just good overall. Its' a good challenge for us tonight. Coming to a new team, there is always an adjustment at the start of the year. After the first 10-15 games, I really found my role and my game. I have been feeling really good lately. Hopefully, I can keep it going."
"It will be a little different, but everyone has been through the league and the game. Changes happen every year. It is not the first time we have played against a former player. Obviously, he was a big part of things here, and you develop a close relationship, but we are in the midst of a grind here in January. There are a lot of games and a lot of key points for us to focus on. You are aware of the type of player he is, the way he can impact the game, and how we need to play. It will be a little different, but when the puck drops, you settle in and play the way you need to play."
"For sure, I think it does, but I think we are kind of past all of that with Mitch. But, for sure, it is the same as having Nic Roy on our side, with him coming back and playing against his old team. There is always juice both ways."
Nic Roy faces his former team and describes the matchup as challenging due to the opponent's depth, strong power play, size, and puck protection. Roy reports an early adjustment after joining Toronto and says he found his role after the first 10–15 games, feeling strong recently. Auston Matthews acknowledges a close friendship with Mitch Marner while stressing team focus on winning and collecting points. Craig Berube recognizes added 'juice' when former teammates meet, noting it goes both ways. John Tavares emphasizes familiarity with facing former players, the January grind, and the need to settle in and play.
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