Auston Matthews on cusp of unforgettable moment
Just one rink will be lit up in Arizona on Friday night - with the local hero finally taking center stage.
Home for the holidays, Auston Matthews will compete in an NHL game in his home state for the very first time as the Toronto Maple Leafs visit the Arizona Coyotes.
Auston Matthews returns home. Check out the cover of today's newspaper: pic.twitter.com/WpyjXaTHNw
— Sarah McLellan (@azc_mclellan) December 23, 2016
Practices postponed in rinks in the surrounding area, it's the hottest ticket in town inside an inspired hockey community that Matthews is validating with his performances thousands of miles away. In the biggest market of its kind.
For his part, Mike Babcock won't take from the dramatic effect.
Mike Babcock will give Auston Matthews the opening faceoff tonight in Arizona.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) December 23, 2016
The pews will be packed with hundreds of young hockey players and fans that look up to "Papi" - as Matthews is known as in his hometown - but there will be a few in attendance that he's particularly excited to perform in front of.
Matthews told TSN's Kristen Shilton that having his grandparents see him play in the NHL for the first time will be "pretty great."
We imagine for the Matthews family, this entire holiday season will be much the same.