Matthew Phillips Bio
Matthew Phillips is a Canadian professional ice hockey right wing who is currently playing with the San Diego Gulls in the American Hockey League (AHL). He was selected by the Calgary Flames, 166th overall, in the 2016 NHL entry draft. Born on April 6, 1998, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Phillips has established himself as a skilled player in the league since beginning his professional career in 2017.
Early Life and Background
Matthew Phillips was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. Growing up in a city with a rich hockey culture, he was exposed to the sport at a young age. Phillips began playing minor hockey and quickly showed promise as a talented player. His early experiences in local leagues helped him develop the skills necessary to pursue a professional career. Phillips attended the Calgary Bisons of the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League, where he had an impressive season, scoring forty goals and 77 points in just 37 games. This performance set the stage for his future in hockey.
Path to Hockey
Phillips was drafted in the second round, 33rd overall, by the Victoria Royals in the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. He participated in the Royals’ training camp and preseason for the 2013-14 WHL season as a 15-year-old, despite not being eligible to play in the regular season. After being returned to his minor ice hockey team, the Calgary Buffaloes, he finished the season with fifteen goals and 35 points in 33 games played. Phillips continued to excel in junior hockey, leading the league in scoring during his second season with the Calgary Buffaloes, which earned him the Harry Allen Memorial Trophy as the top scorer in the AMHL. He made his Western Hockey League debut for the Royals on January 23, 2015, scoring one goal in his first game.
Matthew Phillips Career
Early Career (2017–2021)
On December 31, 2017, Phillips signed a three-year, $2.325 million entry-level contract with the Calgary Flames. He made his National Hockey League debut with the Flames on May 19, 2021, against the Vancouver Canucks, finishing the game with two shots on goal in 14:19 of ice time. During the 2021-22 season with the Stockton Heat, the Flames’ American Hockey League affiliate, Phillips became the Heat’s franchise leader in career goals and points.
Breakthrough (2021–2023)
Phillips continued to develop his skills and contributions to the Flames organization. On August 8, 2021, he signed a one-year, two-way contract extension with the Flames worth $750,000 at the NHL level. He spent the majority of the 2022-23 season with the Flames affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers, where he led the team in goals and points. His performance during this season included being named AHL player of the month for November 2022 and being selected for the AHL All-Star Classic.
Notable Works and Milestones
Phillips achieved significant milestones during his time with the Calgary Flames, including being named to the AHL First All-Star team. On July 2, 2023, he signed a one-year, one-way contract worth $775,000 with the Washington Capitals. He scored his first career NHL goal and added an assist in his first game against the Flames on October 16, 2023.
Matthew Phillips Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Matthew Phillips has received various nominations and accolades, particularly during his time in the AHL, where he has been recognized for his scoring ability and contributions to his teams.
Matthew Phillips Awards Won
Matthew Phillips has achieved notable success in his hockey career, including being named AHL player of the month and receiving recognition as a top scorer in the league.
Matthew Phillips Family
Information regarding Matthew Phillips’ family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Matthew Phillips’ personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed. His focus remains on his professional hockey career.
