Matthews_Hellebuyck

Auston Matthews and Connor Hellebuyck are among more than 20 NHL players who will participate in the Stars & Stripes Showdown, a benefit game featuring United States-born players scheduled for Aug. 26 in Plymouth, Michigan.

Matthews, who had 63 points (34 goals, 29 assists) in 62 games for the Toronto Maple Leafs last season, was born in San Ramon, California, and grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. The 20-year-old center was the No. 1 pick in the 2016 NHL Draft and won the Calder Trophy in 2017.
Hellebuyck (Commerce, Michigan), 25, was a finalist for the Vezina Trophy last season after setting an NHL record for the most wins by a U.S.-born goaltender with 44.
The game is being played in honor of Jim Johannson, with proceeds benefiting the Jim Johannson Legacy Fund of The USA Hockey Foundation, and the Ellie Johannson College Fund. Johannson died on Jan. 21 at the age of 53. He was assistant executive director of hockey operations for USA Hockey for more than 20 years.
Among other NHL players committed to attend include Detroit Red Wings forward Dylan Larkin, Philadelphia Flyers forward James van Riemsdyk, Minnesota Wild forward Zach Parise, Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy and Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski.
NHL coaches who've committed to the game include Jeff Blashill (Detroit Red Wings), John Hynes (New Jersey Devils) and David Quinn (New York Rangers).
"We are all very excited to honor J.J. with this game," Larkin said. "I, along with many others, am thankful for the impact J.J. had on my career, and we are all eager to help his family and continue his legacy."