Auston Matthews reveals the story behind his number 34.

Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews wears number 34, a number that will almost certainly be iconic by the time his National Hockey League career comes to an end, buy why does he wear 34 exactly? 

It's not a number that you immediately associate with an NHL legend of the past, in fact the first two names that come to mind are both goaltenders. Both former New York Rangers and Florida Panthers goaltender John Vanbiesbrouck as well as former Calgary Flames goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff wore the number but neither are the inspiration behind Matthews' choice.

Joshua Kloke recently caught up with Matthews and ask him why he made the choice that he did, and according to Matthews it's just heartwarming story of a young boy who looks up to his dad. 

"I've been wearing it my whole life. My dad wore it when he played baseball and basketball," said Matthews as per the Athletic.

Not the most exciting story behind a jersey number ever, but one that is likely to make fans respect Matthews even more as man.