Auston Matthews needs a break.
The Toronto Maple Leafs center and likely winner of the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie decided against representing Team USA at the World Championship, saying he's "exhausted" from the grind of a long season, according to Chris Johnston of Sportsnet.
Here's what his year has looked like:
Matthews skipping World Championships. Since Sep 8th he's played 98 games. (Incl WCH, Exhib, Reg+Post), about 30 more games than 15-16
— Kevin Gibson (@TSNResearch) April 25, 2017
Matthews is expected to spend some time with his family before getting back to work in the offseason.
Matthews on his goals for off-season training: wants to improve his explosiveness, improve his speed
— Pierre LeBrun (@Real_ESPNLeBrun) April 25, 2017
The 19-year-old led all rookies with 40 goals and 69 points this season, and recorded an additional four goals and one assist in six playoff games.
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