Matias Maccelli Bio
Matias Maccelli is a Finnish professional ice hockey winger currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted 98th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Maccelli has developed into a notable player recognized for his skill and impact on the ice, including a selection to the NHL All-Rookie Team in the 2022–23 season.
Early Life and Background
Matias Maccelli was born on October 14, 2000, in Turku, Finland, to a Finnish father and an American-born mother who moved to Finland at a young age. He also has Italian heritage through his maternal great-grandfather. Growing up in Turku, Maccelli was exposed to ice hockey early, a sport deeply rooted in Finnish culture.
His multicultural background and upbringing in Finland provided a diverse environment that influenced his personal and athletic development. Details about his formal education are not publicly noted, but his early focus was clearly on hockey development.
Path to Hockey
Maccelli began his junior hockey career with HC TPS in the Finnish Liiga before moving to North America in 2017 to join the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League (USHL). Over two seasons in the USHL, he accumulated 93 points in 98 games and earned a spot on the All-USHL Second Team, showcasing his potential at a young age.
Returning to Finland in 2019, he joined Ilves in the Liiga, Finland’s top professional league. His performance there, including 30 points in 42 games during his first season, helped him attract NHL attention and led to his selection by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2019 NHL Draft.
Matias Maccelli Career
Early Career (2019–2021)
After being drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in 2019, Maccelli signed a three-year entry-level contract in April 2020 while continuing to play for Ilves. His rookie season in Liiga was impressive, earning him the Jarmo Wasama Memorial Trophy as the league’s rookie of the year. He remained with Ilves for the 2020–21 season, continuing to develop his game at a high level in Finland.
North American Breakthrough (2021–2023)
In the 2021–22 season, Maccelli moved to North America to play for the Tucson Roadrunners, the AHL affiliate of the Arizona Coyotes. He posted 57 points in 47 games, demonstrating his offensive capabilities. His strong play earned him a call-up to the NHL in March 2022, where he made his debut and scored his first NHL goal shortly thereafter.
The 2022–23 season marked Maccelli’s full NHL breakthrough. Making the Coyotes’ roster out of training camp, he contributed significantly with 49 points in 64 games despite a lower-body injury. His performance on the power play and overall impact led to his selection to the NHL All-Rookie Team, highlighting his arrival as a promising NHL talent.
Toronto Maple Leafs Era (2025–Present)
Following the suspension of the Arizona Coyotes franchise and the transfer of team assets, Maccelli became part of the Utah Hockey Club. After the 2024–25 season, he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs. This move marks a new chapter in his career as he joins one of the NHL’s most storied franchises, where he is expected to continue his development and contribute to the team’s success.
Playing Style and Strengths
Matias Maccelli is known for his agility, playmaking ability, and effectiveness on the power play. His skill set allows him to excel as a winger, combining speed with vision to create scoring opportunities. His adaptability and hockey sense make him a valuable asset in various game situations.
Notable Events and Milestones
Maccelli’s selection to the NHL All-Rookie Team in 2022–23 stands out as a key milestone, reflecting his impact as a newcomer to the league. His first NHL goal and successful transition from European leagues to North American professional hockey are also significant highlights of his career.
Matias Maccelli Career Wins
Throughout his career, Matias Maccelli has achieved notable success across multiple leagues, including the Finnish Liiga and the American Hockey League, before establishing himself in the NHL. His consistent point production and recognition as a top rookie underscore his winning contributions on the ice.
Liiga Highlights
During his time with Ilves, Maccelli recorded 30 points in his rookie Liiga season and earned the Jarmo Wasama Memorial Trophy as the league’s top rookie, marking a strong start to his professional career in Finland.
AHL and NHL Performances
In the AHL with the Tucson Roadrunners, Maccelli tallied 57 points in 47 games, demonstrating his readiness for the NHL. His rookie NHL season with the Arizona Coyotes featured 49 points in 64 games, including significant contributions on the power play.
Matias Maccelli Family
Family Background and Heritage
Matias Maccelli comes from a multicultural family with Finnish, American, and Italian roots. His mother was born in the United States and moved to Finland as a child, while his maternal great-grandfather was from Italy. This diverse heritage has been part of his identity throughout his life.
Personal Life
Details about Maccelli’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. He maintains a professional focus on his hockey career.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Matias Maccelli is set to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs following his trade from the Utah Hockey Club. This season represents a pivotal opportunity for him to establish himself within a competitive NHL team environment. Expectations include continued offensive contributions and integration into the Maple Leafs’ lineup, supported by strong team dynamics and coaching.
His contract through 2026 provides stability as he aims to build on his previous successes and further his development at the highest level of professional hockey.