Reception of USA Men’s Hockey Team Not Going Smoothly

The welcome for the USA men’s hockey team returning home has been less than ideal. There were high hopes, but it seems things aren’t quite working out.

Sportswriter Damian Cox from the Toronto Star didn’t hold back in his criticism of Team USA and Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews. He referred to Matthews as “a failure in every respect as captain of the Leafs,” adding that he seems “miserable.” Cox’s main grievances stem from Matthews’ choice to decline an invitation to a celebration hosted by President Trump in Washington, D.C.

Cox pointed out that Matthews appeared oblivious to the fact that many athletes are opting out of such invitations. He expressed that the U.S. women’s hockey team may have felt insulted by how Trump compared their gold medal achievements to those of the men’s team.

Beyond that, for fans of the Leafs and Canadians alike, Cox highlighted Matthews’ apparent lack of awareness regarding the responsibilities tied to being captain of such a historic franchise. He also mentioned Matthews’ mixed heritage, referencing his mother’s background.

Cox noted, “Matthews was widely seen as a player unable to surpass the limitations of the team that made him famous.” He emphasized that, at this moment, being captain seems secondary to posing for pictures with the President, especially someone whose policies could negatively impact Canada’s economy, from which Matthews benefits.

While Matthews is free to express pride in being American—his mother being a Mexican immigrant who found a new life in the U.S.—Cox questioned whether it’s too much to ask him to represent the Leafs with pride, much like Mats Sundin did when he played for his native Sweden.

Cox lamented, “But No. 34 made his choice. This day may someday mark the unofficial end of the Matthews era in Toronto.”

This criticism sharply contrasts the rousing welcome received by Buffalo’s Tage Thompson and Jack Hughes from New Jersey, who were greeted warmly by a cheering crowd.

Interestingly, Canadian fans, despite a bit of initial resentment, have started to accept that American players represent their team. As such, it’s seen as reasonable for them to attend presidential invitations.

Meanwhile, Canadian media continues to buzz with reactions.