Auston Matthews

The greatest goal-scorer of his generation — four-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner who became the first player since Mario Lemieux to score 70 goals in a single NHL season.

Auston Matthews was born in San Ramon, California in 1997. Toronto Maple Leafs selected him first overall in the 2016 NHL Draft. His career has produced 342 goals across his first eight seasons — a pace that rivals the greatest goal-scorers in history. He scored 60 goals in 2021-22 and 69 goals in 2023-24 — the most in a single season since Mario Lemieux. He has won the Rocket Richard Trophy as the NHL's leading goal scorer four times. He won the Hart Trophy as MVP in 2022. He won the Art Ross Trophy as scoring champion in 2024. He won the Calder Trophy as best rookie in 2017. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2024. He won Olympic silver with the USA in 2022. He was the first pick in the 2016 draft and immediately became the face of the Toronto Maple Leafs — the most scrutinised franchise in hockey. His pure goal-scoring ability — particularly his backhand shot and his one-timer from the right circle — is described by analysts as statistically unmatched in the contemporary game.

Matthews possesses an elite combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ that makes him nearly unstoppable in scoring areas. His quick release and accurate wrist shot, combined with excellent positioning and puck protection abilities, allow him to score from various angles and situations.

Matthews has helped elevate hockey's profile in non-traditional markets and inspired a generation of American players. His consistent excellence has established him as one of the NHL's premier superstars and face of the league.

• Hart Trophy 2024
• Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy 4x (2020, 2022, 2023, 2024)
• Calder Trophy 2017
• Ted Lindsay Award 2024
• NHL All-Star 7x
• 70-goal season 2023-24

Team Career

Team	Period	GP	Goals
Toronto Maple Leafs	2016–2024	562	368
USA	—	29	11