Auston Matthews, the star center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, has emerged as one of the most popular figures in the NHL, largely due to his exceptional talent and marketability. Since being drafted first overall in 2016, Matthews has captivated fans with his impressive skill set, including a powerful shot and remarkable hockey IQ, which have made him a standout player in the league. His popularity is further amplified by his role as the face of one of hockey’s most storied franchises, located in Canada’s largest city, where the Maple Leafs boast a passionate and dedicated fan base.

Seems like quite a legacy, right? But what if he’d made one move that could have changed the trajectory of his whole career? Like every talented athlete, there’s always more than one side to his prowess! If you didn’t know, his sports journey didn’t start on frozen ground. In fact, he didn’t even grow up in that environment! The 27-year-old grew up in the scorching desert of Scottsdale, Arizona, where he played both baseball and hockey during his childhood.

He was heavily influenced by his father, Brian, a former college baseball player, who encouraged him to take up baseball alongside hockey. Matthews showcased impressive hand-eye coordination on the baseball field, and it seemed like a promising path for him.

According to TSN, back in 2019, Auston made a nostalgic return to the baseball diamond, joining top draft prospects for batting practice with the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons. His first swing didn’t go as planned, hitting his ankle instead, which he humorously described as “a little embarrassing.” Despite the awkward start, Matthews fondly recalled his childhood passion for batting, admitting it was “pretty much the only thing I was good at.”

During that time, the spotlight shone on him ahead of the NHL draft and Matthews found himself feeling out of his element, but enjoyed the moment nonetheless. His father offered some nostalgic advice during practice, reminding him of techniques from his youth. “He was bugging me with all the stuff he used to tell me growing up,” Matthews shared, appreciating the guidance despite the initial clumsiness. However, as he honed his skills on the ice, he found himself missing more baseball games for hockey practices.

He was a diehard Phoenix Coyotes fan from a young age, idolizing Shane Doan. By 13, hockey had won his heart, as he recalled, “Hockey was kind of my main sport, my main passion.” Leading him to focus on the ice. This choice paid off when the Toronto Maple Leafs drafted him first overall in 2016. He became the first player from a warm-weather state to achieve this honor.

Now he was set to compete alongside Team USA against Team Canada on Thursday at the 4 Nations Face-Off finale. However, news broke that Matthews was dealing with “upper-body soreness” that raised questions about whether he would compete or not.

Will Auston Matthews compete against Team Canada?

On February 18, Elliotte Friedman dropped a bombshell on X: “USA will play one short tonight. Kreider/Sanderson for Matthew Tkachuk/McAvoy. Auston Matthews is battling something, so [he] will rest tonight and play Thursday.” The news hit like a gut punch, leaving fans on edge as they processed the implications of their star player missing a crucial game against Sweden.

The NHL News later confirmed the distressing update, stating, “Auston Matthews OUT tonight for USA vs Sweden. Americans will play with 11/6, per @FriedgeHNIC.” Fans were understandably anxious, as they were eager to see Matthews shine on such a significant stage. However, there was a silver lining—Matthews is set to return for Thursday’s championship final against Team Canada. “There’s no way I was missing this game,” he declared on Wednesday to Fox, reassuring his supporters that he would be back in action.

Further clarifying that this upper-body injury is distinct from the 15-game absence he faced earlier this season with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He has managed to record one assist in two appearances at the 4 Nations Face-Off and boasts impressive stats for the 2024-25 campaign: 20 goals, 25 assists, and 45 points in just 40 games. As a three-time Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy winner and Hart Trophy recipient, Matthews is undeniably a powerhouse on the ice. His commitment to representing Team USA internationally has only solidified his status as a fan favorite.

Despite the initial panic surrounding his absence, fans can now breathe easier knowing their captain will be back on the ice for what promises to be an exhilarating showdown against Canada. Perhaps it’s this rush to get on the ice that ultimately helped him choose between hockey and baseball. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!