5 things you likely don’t know about Auston Matthews

Top Draft prospect Auston Matthews in Switzerland (Credit: ZSC Lions)BUFFALO — The most important job interview of Auston Matthews’ young career took place Tuesday at the NHL Scouting Combine at First Niagara Center when the projected No. 1 pick in the 2016 NHL Draft met with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Toronto has the No. 1 pick in the draft, which will take place June 24 and 25 at First Niagara Center. Matthews, a native of Scottsdale, Ariz., is looking to become the first American-born player selected No. 1 since Patrick Kane to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2007.

Matthews, No. 1 on NHL Central Scouting’s final ranking of international skaters, thought the interview was very businesslike.

“I think the meeting and interview went well,” Matthews said. “It was a get-to-know-more-about-you kind of thing. I wasn’t asked anything that was out of the ordinary; nothing really to throw me a curveball.”

In addition to the scouting staff, Maple Leafs general manager Lou Lamoriello was present at the interview and listening to every word.

“Mr. Lamoriello didn’t ask me any questions but was just observing and listening,” Matthews said.

Matthews this season played for Zurich in the National League A, Switzerland’s top professional league. He had 24 goals and 46 points in 36 games, won the league’s Rising Star award and was second in voting for most valuable player.

By now, most of his accomplishments have been reported over and over. In an interview with NHL.com, Matthews provided 5 things you might not know about him.

1. Matthews was at one time better at baseball than hockey.

Matthews: “I was really into baseball because my dad and grandpop played it growing up. I really enjoyed hitting the most, and that was really my strong suit. I enjoyed catching as well. It’s kind of different because usually in hockey it’s dad who takes you to …

continue reading in source mapleleafs.nhl.com