Auston Matthews, the highly skilled and prolific goal scorer for the Toronto Maple Leafs, is known for his powerful shot and exceptional hockey sense. But what's the secret weapon behind his success? A significant part of his game is his choice of hockey stick. While specific details about his stick's specifications can fluctuate slightly throughout the season, we can examine the general characteristics and brands he consistently favors.
What Brand of Stick Does Auston Matthews Use?
Auston Matthews is a long-time user of CCM sticks. He has been a sponsored athlete for the brand for many years, and his preferred model often falls under the CCM RibCor line. However, it's important to note that professional athletes often make subtle customizations and might even experiment with slight variations throughout a season based on feel and performance.
What Flex Rating Does Auston Matthews Use?
The flex rating of a hockey stick is crucial, representing its stiffness. A higher flex rating indicates a stiffer stick, better suited for players with a powerful shot. While the exact flex rating Matthews uses isn't publicly released by CCM, based on his shooting style and power, it's likely to be in the high 80s or low 100s. This range signifies a stiff stick capable of handling his powerful slap shots and wristers.
What Curve Does Auston Matthews Use?
The curve of a hockey stick significantly impacts shot accuracy and puck handling. Matthews' preferred curve is a closely guarded secret, not usually publicized by either him or CCM. Professional players often have very specific curve preferences tailored to their individual shooting style, and revealing this information could give competitors an edge. Observing his shooting style, however, suggests a curve designed for maximum power and accuracy on his signature shots.
Does Auston Matthews Use a Custom Stick?
Almost certainly, yes. Top NHL players rarely use completely "off-the-shelf" sticks. They usually work closely with equipment specialists at CCM to create custom sticks tailored to their exact specifications. This may involve minor adjustments to the curve, flex, length, shaft weight and other properties to achieve optimal performance. These customizations are often extremely subtle, only noticeable to the player themselves and the equipment staff.
How Can I Find a Similar Stick to Auston Matthews'?
While you can't replicate Auston Matthews' exact custom stick, you can find similar models from CCM's RibCor line. Look for sticks with a high flex rating in the 80s or low 100s. The specific curve will be challenging to perfectly match without inside information, but focusing on curves designed for powerful shots will get you closer. Remember that the feel of a stick is highly individual, so you'll want to experiment to find what works best for your playing style and strength.
What other equipment does Auston Matthews use?
While the stick is a key part of his equipment, it's just one piece of the puzzle. He uses CCM skates, gloves, and other protective gear. Specific models may vary, and like his stick, he likely works with CCM to customize these pieces for optimal performance.
In conclusion, while the precise specifications of Auston Matthews' hockey stick remain somewhat elusive, understanding the general characteristics of his preferred brand, flex, and likely customization offers valuable insights into the equipment choices of a top NHL player. Remember that replicating his setup won't automatically make you a star, but understanding the principles behind his choices can guide your own equipment decisions.
