Matthews Reflects on Bittersweet Journey: From Arizona to Playing for the Maple Leafs in Utah

Auston Matthews grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he became a big fan of the Coyotes. As the Toronto Maple Leafs visited the Delta Center for the first time since the Coyotes moved to Utah, he must have felt a mix of emotions about seeing NHL action in a different place.

Still, Matthews found some excitement in it. He mentioned how refreshing it is to be in a new market and explore a new city.

Back in February, Matthews scored both his 50th and 51st goals during Toronto’s last game in Tempe before the Coyotes made their move to Utah.

The day before that game, Matthews hosted his teammates at his home for a team bonding day.

He shared, “It felt good to host the guys. We were lucky with the beautiful weather, too.”

Matthews highlights how local professional sports shape the sports culture in a city. With the Coyotes no longer in Arizona, he hopes to keep inspiring young players as Team USA’s captain at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

Matthews noted, “Hockey in Arizona is growing. Losing a team is tough. Watching those games was such a thrill for me growing up. But more players from Arizona are making it to the NHL, which is encouraging.”

He also said, “It’s important for people from Arizona, like myself, to inspire young athletes. I hope the Coyotes leaving doesn’t hurt the growth of hockey there too much.”