Feb 13, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team USA forward Auston Matthews (34) looks on against Team Finland in the second period during a 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey game at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews is sporting a new look at Team USA’s first practice and it shows that he isn’t taking any chances regarding an injury.

As the ice hockey portion of the Olympics draws near, it means that teams are getting set for their first practice together as countries look to add their name to the history books with a gold medal after all is said and done.

Auston Matthews sporting new protective gear ahead of 2026 Olympics

One man who will be looked upon to lead the team to glory is Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews and he seemingly isn’t taking any chances as he looks to lead the red, white, and blue to glory:

Matthews was seen skating in his first practice for Team USA but keen eyed fans will notice that he is wearing a new piece of equipment to ensure he’s as safe as possible.

Sporting a neck guard, Matthews is making it clear that an errant skate or stick shouldn’t be an issue and it could lead him to sport the guard going forward when teams return to the NHL schedule.

It should also be noted that Matthews was also skating alongside Matt Boldy and Jake Guentzel on the first line:

It’s not too shocking to see him get a bit safer as there are concerns that he could be injured in this tournament and has dealt with issues the past year or so. Plus, teammate Matthew Knies (a fellow American) has put an onus on safety and could have also implored his captain to add some more protection.

It’s a great sign to see that Matthews is doing sas much as he can to protect his health not only for the Olympics but to mitigate any damage looking ahead to a potential playoff push.

Matthews has been much better this season and looks a lot more like the player of old. In 51 games he’s got 48 points (26 goals, 22 assists) and is starting to get his shot back which is a great sign not only for the Maple Leafs but the American squad looking for gold.

Good on Matthews for protecting himself as best he can, and with it being the difference between safety and serious injury; it’s better to be safe than sorry.

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