Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews finally has his moment. For years, the noise followed him around. Great scorer, elite talent. But can he win when it matters most? He answered that in Milan, leading Team USA to a gold medal.
It was one of the most entertaining games we have seen in a long time. Team USA and Team Canada traded chances all night and reminded everyone why best on best hockey just feels different.
Matthews Wins the Gold Medal
The Americans opened the scoring with a goal from Matt Boldy, and that stood until late in the second period. Cale Makar tied it with a beautiful shot past Connor Hellebuyck, who had been lights out the entire game. Then Jack Hughes ended it in overtime, burying the winner and giving the United States the moment it had been waiting decades for.
As for Matthews, he captained this team and led the way. Statistically, he was right at the top. Entering the gold medal game, he led the Americans in points. By the end of the game, he, Brady Tkachuk and Hughes were tied with seven points each. But this tournament was about more than numbers. He played a complete game, handled the pressure, and looked every bit like the leader of the group.
Related: USA’s 2026 Olympic Men’s Hockey Roster
Now the focus shifts back to Toronto. The Maple Leafs return to action on Feb. 25 against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first half of a back to back. Once the NHL schedule kicks back in, it will be a sprint to the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline Tracker. If Matthews can carry even a bit of this form into the stretch run, the Maple Leafs will take it.
