We spent more time talking about Auston Matthews' entry-level contract than the No. 1 overall selection and his representation did with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
A lot more, apparently.
Speaking on a conference call Thursday shortly after officially adding Matthews to the Maple Leafs' banner, general manager Lou Lamoriello said the contract was agreed upon within 10 minutes at the table with Matthews' agent Pat Brisson.
It had been speculated over the last several weeks that Lamoriello was hesitant to give Matthews the fully loaded, incentive-laden deal he did eventually sign Thursday. Lamoriello and Brisson, however, indicated that the two parties did not have any issues ironing out the deal.
Lamoriello attributed the delay to other ongoing housework, and said he's operating the "Toronto way," meaning precedent from his time with the New Jersey Devils does not apply to his dealings in Toronto.
He said the No. 1 overall pick deserves the maximum salary and financial incentives permitted under the collective bargaining agreement.
