Nicholas Mattinen sets his sights on the NHL with the Toronto Maple Leafs

After a diverse journey through U-Sports, the AHL, Austria, and the German DEL, Nicholas Mattinen is back where his professional hockey career began.

Drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs eight years ago, Mattinen has returned to the organization with a clear and ambitious goal: to make his mark in the NHL.

His path back to Toronto has been anything but direct. From his initial draft in 2016 to a stint in Austria, where he showcased his skills, Mattinen has consistently developed and improved his game, evidenced by an impressive 88 points in 98 games over two seasons in the DEL.

.This performance undoubtedly caught the attention of the Maple Leafs management, leading to his re-signing with the team earlier this April.

eight years after he was drafted by the Maple Leafs

Standing at 6'5" and weighing 225 pounds, Mattinen's physical presence is a significant addition to the Maple Leafs' defensive line. Leafs GM Brad Treliving's strategy appears to be focused on enhancing the team's size and strength on the back end, a critical area of need for the squad.

Officially signed back in April

In a recent interview with Joshua Kloke of The Athletic, Mattinen reflected on his journey and his optimism about his return to the Maple Leafs. He shared,

"Internally, I always felt like I could play [in the NHL]. I just kept working on my game and internally believing that 'If you're good enough, they'll find you.' Toronto found me for the second time, eight years later."

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As the new season approaches, Mattinen is slated to start with the Toronto Marlies in the AHL. However, his performance there could swiftly earn him a call-up to the NHL, particularly as the Leafs navigate the inevitable challenges of injuries throughout the season. His experience and recent form suggest he could be more than ready to step up when needed, adding depth and reliability to the Leafs' defense.

Nicholas Mattinen's return to the Maple Leafs is not just a homecoming but a testament to his unwavering dedication and belief in his abilities. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on him to see if he can translate his impressive international experience into success in the NHL.

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