When Auston Matthews, the center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, received his first professional hockey paycheck, the experience was nothing short of surreal. The moment marked the beginning of a journey filled with lucrative contracts and a series of commendable achievements in the National Hockey League (NHL). Matthews’ initial reaction to his first big payday offers a delightful glimpse into the life of an emerging sports superstar.
“I was sitting with my mom, and I saw my first paycheck come in, and we were both laughing so hard about it, like, ‘This is crazy.’ I don’t even know how much money it was in, but it was more money I’ve ever seen in my bank account. And same with my mom. So it was pretty sweet. We’re just sitting there kind of giggling on each other, like, ‘This is crazy,'”
Matthews shared. This candid moment not only highlights the humble beginnings from which many athletes arise but also underscores the life-changing nature of professional sports.
Selected first overall in the 2016 NHL Draft, Matthews signed a three-year, $11.3 million contract with the Leafs. The signing bonus alone was a figure far beyond what he or his family had ever imagined. The story of Matthews and his mother, spellbound and joyous over his first paycheck, resonates with many who dream of making it big.
Celebrating Success: Family, Food, and Future Goals
The excitement didn’t stop at just receiving the paycheck. Matthews described a family dinner that followed, a celebration that included close family members:
“We went to a nice dinner. My dad was in town. Obviously, my mom was there with me. I had my older sister there with me for a couple months. So I think we just went to a nice dinner. All five of us. My younger sister came up as well around the time of my first game. So it was just cool, man, honestly.”
This intimate gathering was not just about commemorating his professional debut but also about sharing his success with those closest to him.
From Rookie to Record Holder
Since his debut, Matthews has not only secured multiple multi-year contracts but has also shattered records. In 2019, he signed a five-year, $58.2 million extension, and recently in 2023, he inked a four-year, $54 million deal that ensures his stay in Toronto until at least his 30th birthday. His journey from a rookie astounded by his first paycheck to a key player securing multi-million dollar deals illustrates his significant growth and the high expectations resting on his shoulders.
Currently sidelined due to an injury, Matthews is missing crucial games this season. His presence is sorely missed as the Leafs strive to maintain their competitiveness. As they look forward to the post-Thanksgiving games, the team, and fans alike are eager for his return, hoping he will inject vigor back into their lineup.
A Symbol of Hope and Hard Work
Auston Matthews’ story is a powerful reminder of how sports can transform lives. From a teenager laughing in disbelief at his burgeoning bank balance to a seasoned athlete handling the pressures of fame and expectation, Matthews continues to inspire both on and off the ice. His journey reflects the essence of professional sports: a blend of personal achievement, family support, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.