Matthews emphasizes 'ultimate goal' after signing extension

With his contract negotiations in the rearview mirror, Auston Matthews can now turn his attention fully toward helping the Toronto Maple Leafs compete for the Stanley Cup.

The superstar center mentioned those aspirations repeatedly after inking his new five-year, $58.15-million pact Tuesday.

"In the end, you're measured on championships and that's what I want to do," Matthews told reporters, including Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.

The 21-year-old stressed that it's a team target as much as a personal one.

"We want to accomplish our ultimate goal, which is the Stanley Cup, and make this city proud," he told the assembled media, including TSN. "We're working toward that every day."

When asked if his new deal brings with it added pressure to deliver that goal, Matthews downplayed that notion.

"We always feel the pressure from fans here," he said. "They want a championship team, and we want to give it to them. This city deserves it."

In terms of his focus, Matthews clarified that the talks were "never really a weight" on his shoulders but said it's nice to get them over with.

He ranks second on the club with 23 goals and fourth with 46 points this season, despite missing 14 games due to injury.

The Maple Leafs have the fourth-best record in the NHL and sit in second place in the Atlantic Division, 13 points behind the league-leading Tampa Bay Lightning.

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