Maple Leafs move training camp from Muskoka to Arizona, where team leadership has deep ties - Toronto Star

Recent destinations for Leafs training camp have been closer to home, like Gravenhurst or Bracebridge. 

Auston Matthews celebrates after scoring his 50th goal of the season against the Arizona Coyotes at Mullett Arena on Feb. 21, 2024.

The Maple Leafs are taking their training camp on the road.

In a twist few saw coming, the team will be practising Saturday in Mullett Arena, the former home of the Arizona Coyotes, in Tempe, Ariz.

“I’m looking forward to it,” said captain Auston Matthews, who was raised a Coyotes fan in Scottsdale. “There’s time between now and the first game (Tuesday), so getting away, doing something as a team is important.

“I’m definitely not complaining. It’s in my hometown.”

He’s not alone. Winger Matthew Knies is also from Phoenix.

“It’ll be cool,” said Knies. “I’ll get to see my family in the morning and spend some time with them, which doesn’t happen. It’s going to be pretty nice to spend some times with these guys in a different space.”