Fan favourite who played with McDavid and Matthews shares their similarities

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Liam McCormick
August 15, 2024 (11:18)

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Edmonton born NHL player Tyler Ennis has become a fan favourite across the sport of hockey, and is one of the few players who has the unique experience of playing with McDavid and Matthews.

Ennis played one season for the Maple Leafs in 2018-19, and two straight season with the Oilers from 2019-21. When speaking about the similarities between the two generational talents, Ennis hilariously said they're so much better than you, but also detailed their off-ice habits that make them so good.

»The similarities is that they're so unattainably good. The first time I saw Matthews . . . I remember I was drafted as a skill guy. My whole life, everyone's like you got so much skill, you know, blah blah.

I skate with Auston, way more skill than me, and he's 6'3, jacked, and he shoots the puck like Joe Sakic. You're like this is a different beast right here. Connor, same deal. First practice with Connor, you're like that's not a human.

Then on top of that, you guys probably all know, the guys that are the best of the best, they're different off the ice. They live it. I didn't know what a carb was until I was 25.»
- Tyler Ennis

For players at the generational superstar level, the expectations and goals are much different from a player like Tyler Ennis. He noted that he was just looking to make the NHL, where Auston Matthews and Connor McDavid are actively trying to be the best player in the league. Their off-ice drive for success is unparalleled, and it shows when they step onto the ice. Their dedication to the game is incredible, and Ennis gives a hilariously different perspective as a depth skill player in awe of their talent.

Tyler Ennis is just 34 years old, but is now two seasons removed from last playing in the NHL. The Edmonton native was drafted in the first round by the Buffalo Sabres in 2008, and went on to play 700 career games for five different teams. After some time in the Swiss Elite league and Germany's DEL, Ennis has officially retired after a neck injury. His shorter stature at 5'9 paired with his undeniable skill and scoring touch earned Ennis many fans across the NHL, who will all wish him best in the next chapter of his life.

Source: Spittin Chiclets on X

Tyler Ennis explains the similarities of Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews.