Possible Toronto Maple Leafs Playing in the 2022 Olympics

The Toronto Maple Leafs will be well represented in Beijing.

After NHL players missed out on playing at the 2018 winter Olympics, the 2022 games immediately became a topic of discussion. Thankfully, the NHL announced their approval of NHL participation at this upcoming Olympics, barring any last-minute issues. The Toronto Maple Leafs – and the rest of the league – will pause their season for two weeks, but it will be well worth it.

Most fans will focus on how their country will perform. Others look to enjoy the best of the best go head-to-head in an All-Star-like tournament.

Well, I’m here to tell you that many players from the Toronto Maple Leafs will play in Beijing. Here are the expected players to play in the 2022 Olympics.

Auston Matthews

That should come as no surprise. Not only is Auston Matthews the biggest name on the Toronto Maple Leafs, but he is one of the best players in the world. He was one of the first three Americans announced to make the roster.

His history of playing at an international level is well-noted, with appearances playing in the World Cup of Hockey, World Juniors, and World Championship. In total, he donned the red, white, and blue in 42 games and three games with North America’s under-23 team at the 2016 World Cup.

Most recognize Matthews as one of the best players in the NHL, but we must give credit to his international play. He averaged at least one point-per-game in five of his seven international tournaments, totaling 56 points over that span.

He should play on the top line for the U.S.A. alongside other stars. Auston will likely play alongside familiar faces in Beijing, such as Johnny Gaudreau, Seth Jones, and Connor Hellebuyck.