Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews among captains for NHL All-Star Game

Auston Matthews thinks 'it's pretty special' to be named an NHL All-star captain and sees the Toronto fan base as being a major reason for the honour.

Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid, Toronto Maple Leafs goal machine Auston Matthews, Washington Capitals sniper Alex Ovechkin and Colorado Avalanche centre Nathan MacKinnon have been elected captains for the 2019 NHL All-Star Game.

McDavid will captain the Pacific Division for the third time in as many seasons. The former first-overall pick has been his usual dominant self in 2018-19, already amassing 19 goals and 33 assists on the year.

Matthews has played in the event in each of his prior two NHL seasons and will serve as a captain for the first time for the Atlantic Division. The 21-year-old has missed time with a shoulder injury, but has 19 goals in just 23 games.

Ovechkin has suited up in seven all-star games and will captain the Metropolitan Division for the second straight year. He leads the NHL with 29 goals this season.

MacKinnon will be making his third appearance in the showcase. He has 56 points through 37 games for the Avalanche, who currently sit third in the Central Division.

The remaining players who will make up the four all-star rosters will be determined by the NHL’s Hockey Operations Department.

San Jose will host NHL All-Star Weekend from Jan. 25‑26.

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