Toronto decided to draft the towering 6'5, 224 pound defenseman knowing full well they needed not only an intimidating presence on the ice but one that happens to shoot right handed (a rarity it seems nowadays). Using a 5th round pick on the lad, the team was hopeful he could be a key player in the near future.
Though his journey to Toronto had a few pit stops along the way, Mattinen never lost focus, and always bet on himself that one day he could crack the NHL roster. Speaking to The Athletic, Mattinen talked about that although it took longer than he had anticipated, he knew they'd come knocking.
Mattinen bounced around both the DEL (Germany) and Austria ICE hockey where he put up a solid 12 goals and 30 assists as a member of VSV EC in the Austrian League, meanwhile posted an even better 16 goals and 30 assists whilst playing for the Straubing Tigers. Not too shabby for a defenseman, especially playing against older, more veteran players.
His expectations are high, and although it may not initially happen as soon as the season starts, there's no doubt there's room on not only the Marlies roster, but in the big leagues as well; thanks to a shift in mentality during the offseason.
