Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews named captain of USA’s men’s Olympic hockey team
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews has been named captain of the United States men’s Olympic hockey team.
Matthews previously served as the United States’ captain during the 4 Nations Face-Off. Charlie McAvoy and Matthew Tkachuk will serve as alternate captains during the Olympics.
“Auston, Charlie and Matthew did a great job in leading our team a year ago at the 4 Nations Face-Off and it’s great to have them back in those roles for the Olympics,” United States general manager Bill Guerin said in a release. “They all bring different leadership traits to the table and I know all three are excited, as is our whole team, about representing our country as part of Team USA.”
Matthews has recorded 26 goals and 48 points in 51 games for the Maple Leafs this season.
“It’s obviously a huge honour and privilege to be able to represent your country and go and compete in it,” Matthews said during his media availability on January 26. “There are a lot of things you’re excited about. I’m looking forward to, first and foremost, the hockey and being able to compete like that. I think everything that else that goes into it, it’s definitely a really special experience.”
Matthews will be a focal point of the United States’ offence during the Olympics, as he’s rounded back into top form through January. During Sunday’s practice, Matthews was paired with Jake Guentzel and Matt Boldy on his wings. Jack Eichel centred a line with Brady Tkachuk and Matthew Tkachuk, while the team rotated the rest of their forwards.
“I think we feel like we’re up there,” Matthews said of Team USA’s chances to win gold. “We should be competing for gold. It’s first Olympics in a while since we’ve been able to consistently be up there. You want to be the best country in the world, and this is a great opportunity.”
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