Top 2016 Prospect Auston Matthews Becomes the First North American to Play in Europe

For the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Auston Matthews is the top eligible prospect. The 17 year old center has decided to play his draft year in Europe, according to Damien Cox:

Almost 100 percent Auston Matthews is headed to Europe, not WHL or NCAA.

Teams from Sweden, Finland and Switzerland are attempting to recruit the top prospect. Matthews, who was born in Scottsdale, Arizona, played for the United States Development Program in 2015, scoring 55 goals and adding 61 assists in 60 games. Matthews will be the first North American prospect to play with adult men in Europe in his draft year.