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Auston Matthews and Trevor Zegras honored Jason Hodges, who finished his career with USA Hockey's National Team Development Program. Matthews, the captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, shared a touching post from the NTDP on his Instagram story.
He praised Hodges, calling him "goated" and one of the best people he has met in hockey.
"Goated. one of the best people I’ve met in hockey, love you, jbird," Auston Matthews wrote.
Trevor Zegras, a rising star with the Anaheim Ducks, agreed with Matthews in his own post, referring to Hodges as "the best ever."
Hodges is ending a remarkable 26-season career. He was involved in 1,644 games and many international events. During his career, he supported 18 U.S. teams that won medals worldwide, including five gold, two silver and one bronze at the IIHF Under-18 Men's World Championship. He also worked with the 2022 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team.
Hodges graduated from the University of Michigan and earned a Master’s degree in athletic training. He dedicated his career to helping young athletes develop. His experience includes several U.S. National Junior Teams and the World Under-17 Challenge.
Can Auston Matthews lead the Maple Leafs to playoff success as their new captain?
Auston Matthews is the most talented player in Toronto Maple Leafs history. His skills surpass that of legends like Doug Gilmour and Mats Sundin.
Although he hasn't found playoff success, Matthews knows how to elevate his game. He had a great debut, scoring four goals and winning the Calder Trophy. Since then, he has improved every year, scoring 60 goals in the 2021-22 season.
Now, at 27, Matthews is the Maple Leafs' new captain, taking over from John Tavares. Matthews feels honored to lead such a historic franchise.
“I’ve got chills, honestly,” Matthews said (viatheleafsnation.com). “I’m so honoured and humbled. Since being drafted here eight years ago, you realize how special it is to play for the City of Toronto.
"To wear the Maple Leaf on your chest every single night, it just means the world. To have support from Johnny (Tavares) my teammates, our staff, ownership, my family, it just means the world to me.”
This season will challenge Auston Matthews' leadership. He must do more than just score goals; he will need to motivate his teammates during tough times. The true measure of Matthews' legacy will be whether he can lead the Maple Leafs to playoff success. Winning a Stanley Cup would fulfill the dreams of the team’s loyal fans.
