Leave it to reporters to ask the dumbest of questions at times, and today was no exception as Auston Matthews was asked if he would reject the captaincy.

Today was a big day for Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews, as he became the first ever American to don a “C” on a Leafs jersey, after it was handed over to him from John Tavares. Matthews was asked a series of questions, and one of them was a little ridiculous.

“Did it cross your mind to say thanks but no thanks”

Despite that question, Auston Matthews did have nothing but good things to say and he’s extremely thrilled and honored to be taking over as captain of the team.

Auston Matthews was drafted first overall by the Maple Leafs in 2016, and recently signed a four-year, $53 million extension, which made him the highest paid player in the league with an AAV of $13.25 million.

Auston Matthews hit several career highs last season, including games played with 81, goals with 69 and points with 107. He also won his third Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy last season for leading the league in goals. In his career, Matthews has won the Ted Lindsay Award, Hart Memorial Trophy as well as the Calder Memorial Trophy.

The Leafs are hoping that this change in captaincy will help the team go deeper in the playoffs, and both Auston Matthews and John Tavares seem to be fully embracing their new roles, which could spell great things for the team next season.