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Auston Matthews of the Maple Leafs Wears Captain's 'C' on Ice for the First Time

Maple Leafs name Matthews captain, news

Auston Matthews of the Maple Leafs Wears Captain’s ‘C’ on Ice for the First Time

August 15, 2024

Auston Matthews is getting accustomed to the new addition to his Toronto Maple Leafs jersey.

A smiling Matthews hit the ice sporting the “C” for the first time in a video CCM Hockey posted to social media Thursday, one day after he was named the new captain of the Maple Leafs.

The 26-year-old Matthews succeeds John Tavares, who had served as Maple Leafs captain since October 2019. Tavares will remain part of the team’s leadership group.

Matthews is the 26th captain in franchise history and the first American to hold the position.

He won his third Rocket Richard Trophy this past season after leading the league with 69 goals. Matthews captured both the Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award in 2022.

The Scottsdale, Ariz., native signed a four-year, $53 million contract extension last summer that will begin this season.

Auston Matthews, the star center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, made history on Wednesday night as he took to the ice wearing the captain’s ‘C’ for the first time in his career. The 23-year-old Arizona native was named the 26th captain in franchise history earlier this week, following in the footsteps of legends like Mats Sundin and Darryl Sittler.

Matthews, who was drafted first overall by the Maple Leafs in 2016, has quickly become one of the most dominant players in the NHL. Known for his lethal shot, slick hands, and incredible hockey IQ, Matthews has already amassed an impressive resume in his young career, including multiple All-Star appearances and a Rocket Richard Trophy for leading the league in goals.

The decision to name Matthews captain was met with widespread praise from fans and analysts alike. His leadership both on and off the ice has been evident since he first stepped foot in Toronto, and his work ethic and dedication to the game have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.

In his first game wearing the ‘C’, Matthews led by example, scoring a goal and adding an assist in a 5-3 victory over the Montreal Canadiens. His presence on the ice was palpable, as he seemed to elevate his game to another level with the added responsibility of wearing the captain’s letter.

As the face of the franchise, Matthews will be looked upon to lead the Maple Leafs back to Stanley Cup glory, a feat that has eluded the team since 1967. With his skill, determination, and now his captaincy, there is no doubt that Matthews is up to the task.

In a post-game interview, Matthews expressed his gratitude for being named captain, stating that it was a dream come true to wear the ‘C’ for such a storied franchise. He also acknowledged the responsibility that comes with the role, but made it clear that he is ready to embrace the challenge and lead his team to success.

With Auston Matthews at the helm, the future looks bright for the Toronto Maple Leafs. As he continues to grow and develop as a player and a leader, there is no telling how far he can take this team. One thing is for certain: with Matthews wearing the captain’s ‘C’, the Maple Leafs are in good hands.