Explore Auston Matthews’ Arizona Roots: Insights on Hometown and Junior Career
Auston Matthews has established himself as a major player in the world of ice hockey. Known for his exceptional talent, he currently plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL. This article delves into his Arizona roots and provides insights into his junior career.
Explore Auston Matthews’ Arizona Roots
Auston Matthews was born on September 17, 1997, in San Ramon, California. Shortly after his birth, his family moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he spent much of his formative years. This environment significantly influenced his athletic development and passion for hockey.
Early Career and Development
Matthews began his hockey journey with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program located in Plymouth, Michigan. This program is designed to cultivate young hockey talents for competitive international play. In 2014, he made a pivotal decision to forgo the traditional junior hockey path, opting instead for professional experience in Europe.
He signed with the ZSC Lions in the Swiss National League A. This opportunity allowed him to compete at a high level and refine his skills before entering the NHL.
Auston Matthews’ Junior Career Insights
Typically, aspiring hockey players progress through junior leagues to build their experience. However, Matthews selected a unique trajectory. He was drafted by the Everett Silvertips during the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft but opted for international play instead.
His year in Switzerland was influential, as it provided exposure to diverse playing styles and competitive environments, sharpening his abilities in the process.
Transition to the NHL
Following his successful season in Switzerland, Matthews entered the 2016 NHL Draft. He was selected first overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs, marking the beginning of his professional hockey career. Since then, he has gained recognition for his remarkable scoring ability and impactful contributions to his team.
Career Statistics Overview
| Season | Team | GP | Goals | Assists | Points | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016-17 | Maple Leafs | 82 | 40 | 29 | 69 | 20 |
| 2017-18 | Maple Leafs | 63 | 34 | 26 | 60 | 25 |
| 2018-19 | Maple Leafs | 68 | 37 | 36 | 73 | -3 |
| 2019-20 | Maple Leafs | 70 | 47 | 38 | 85 | 19 |
| 2020-21 | Maple Leafs | 52 | 41 | 25 | 66 | 21 |
| 2021-22 | Maple Leafs | 73 | 60 | 46 | 106 | 20 |
| 2022-23 | Maple Leafs | 74 | 40 | 58 | 83 | 31 |
| 2023-24 | Maple Leafs | 81 | 39 | 38 | 77 | 31 |
Auston Matthews’ journey from Arizona to the NHL highlights his commitment to the sport. His background and experiences have shaped him into a formidable player, making his Arizona roots an essential part of his narrative.
