Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews has once again showcased his close friendship with pop superstar Justin Bieber as he enthusiastically celebrated the unexpected release of Bieber’s latest album, titled Swag. This 21-track compilation has sent ripples of excitement among not only the singer's fans, known as Beliebers, but also among hockey enthusiasts. Over the weekend, Matthews took to Instagram to express his excitement, sharing two stories that highlighted his support for Bieber's musical endeavors.

In his first Instagram story, Matthews featured Bieber's track titled “YUKON”, proudly displaying the album's sleek black-and-white cover art alongside the parental advisory label. By tagging Bieber directly and adding a fire heart emoji, Matthews made it clear that he was fully endorsing his friend's latest project. He continued to show his support in a second story, where he shared another track from the album, “WAY IT IS,” a collaboration between Bieber and rapper Gunna. His simple yet enthusiastic caption, “Yep,” effectively conveyed his admiration for the song.

This exchange, while seemingly casual, is reflective of the deep-rooted friendship and mutual admiration that has blossomed between Matthews and Bieber over the years. Both have often found ways to support each other publicly, with Bieber being a passionate fan of the Maple Leafs. He has been a regular fixture at hockey games, often seen cheering from the stands, and he has even collaborated with the team on special jersey designs, further solidifying his connection to the franchise.

Just a month ago, Bieber made headlines with a touching Instagram post featuring his 10-month-old son, Jack Blues Bieber, who was adorably dressed in an Auston Matthews jersey, number 34. This moment was warmly received by the Maple Leafs’ official account, which responded with three blue heart emojis, symbolizing the strong bond between the pop icon and the hockey star.

During the Maple Leafs’ recent playoff run, Bieber and his wife Hailey were spotted in VIP seating right behind the team’s bench during a crucial Game 7 against the Florida Panthers. Although the game ended unfavorably for the Leafs with a disappointing 6-1 loss, Bieber took to Instagram to reflect on the experience, expressing his lifelong obsession with the team. He wrote, “I don’t remember a time in my life when I haven’t been obsessed with the leafsssss. This year we made it farther than we have in so long and I’m happy about that. I can be patient cuz I know this is the team to do it.”

Even after fellow Canadian rapper Drake humorously attributed the team’s playoff exit to what he dubbed the “Bieber curse,” the loyalty and camaraderie between Bieber and the Maple Leafs, especially with Auston Matthews, remains unwavering. With the release of Swag now echoing through the Maple Leafs' locker room, fans are left to wonder if this album might become the team’s new motivational soundtrack as they aim for greater success in the future.