Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews has been named one of the first three players of the 2022 U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team.

“It’s no secret we’re excited about the prospects of our team for the 2022 games,” said Stan Bowman, general manager of the team. “Patrick (Kane), Auston and Seth (Jones) reflect the high level of talent that will make up our final roster as we strive to bring gold back home to the U.S.”

The remainder of the 25-player team is expected to be unveiled in January. Team USA is scheduled to begin play in the Olympic tournament on Feb. 10 against host China.

Matthews, 24, who led the NHL in goals last season with 41, is beginning his sixth NHL season, all with the Maple Leafs. He has represented the U.S. on the international stage five previous times, including helping Team USA win gold in the 2014 and 2015 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship and bronze in the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship.

The first overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft by Toronto, the Scottsdale native is making his first Olympic appearance. He won the NHL’s Calder Trophy in 2017 and was a member of USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program from 2013-15.

During his youth hockey days, Matthews played for the Arizona Bobcats.

Maple Leafs photo/Michael Caples/MiHockey

(October 7, 2021)