Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews recently made headlines by gifting a signed jersey for Justin Hailey Bieber’s four-month-old son, Jack.
This gesture not only highlights the friendship between Auston Matthews and the pop superstar but also signifies the continuation of a legacy of hockey fandom for the Bieber family.
For those who might not know, Justin Bieber is a well-documented Leafs supporter, and his relationship with Matthews dates back to the 2016-17 NHL season when Matthews rocketed into the league as a top draft pick.
Since then, they’ve cultivated a friendship that goes beyond the ice.
Auston Matthews Gifts a Jersey to Justin Bieber’s Son
Bieber has often been seen at Leafs games, and while he might not have made an appearance yet this season (maybe because he’s busy being a new dad?), his allegiance to the team remains unwavering. Recently, Bieber shared Matthews’ gift with his followers on Instagram.
The inscription read, “To JB Jr, Peace and Love,” with Matthews’ signature inside the numbers on the No. 34 jersey. Jack is still too young to express his love for the game, but his father has made it clear that he’s already indoctrinating him into the world of Leafs fandom.
It’s safe to say that Jack is on the fast track to becoming a devoted Leafs supporter. This is just the latest showcase of the Bieb’s fandom and friendship with the freshly minted Maple Leafs Captain.
The Toronto-hosted 2024 NHL All-Star Game saw Bieber play a significant role in the festivities. He served as the celebrity captain for Team Matthews, helping draft the team and participating in on-ice warmups.
Bieber described the experience as “unbelievable” and mentioned that he had been dreaming about being part of the All-Star weekend.. Alongside Matthews, the two celebrities selected an impressive roster, including fellow Leafs stars like Mitch Marner and William Nylander.
Bieber is one of the most scrutinized and polarizing stars on the planet, which makes him a perfect Maple Leafs fan now that I think about it. Personally, I have no negative feelings toward JB. In fact, Bieber serves as a means for me to get my wife interested in hockey, and I could use any help I can get.
Celebrity fandom, especially in someone as recognizable as Bieber can only help the NHL. The Maple Leafs arguably have the most star-studded ensemble of any team’s celebrity fans, and Bieber is the pinnacle of the list (even if I favor Hayden Christensen).
As Jack grows up, he will inevitably be introduced to his father’s legendary fandom and his relationship with players like Matthews. This should set young Jack up to follow suit, and be well prepared for a lifetime of heartbreak and disappointment. Ouch, is it too late now to say sorry?
It’s never too early to join the most loyal fanbase in hockey. Justin has shown some natural skill on the ice on more than one occasion, and perhaps he will pass down some of his talent to Jack. Or maybe his buddy Auston can give Jack some private lessons. Who knows, maybe someday, Leafs fans will be cheering for a player with Bieber on the back of their iconic blue sweater.
Just one final question for Justin, though: Did you have to name him Jack Blues Bieber? You couldn’t go with Jack Maple or Jack Leaf? The grief you’re going to hear from St. Louis fans is going to be insufferable.