UConn's Wood bets on himself during NHL draft year

SPORTSCENTRE Reporter

Follow| Archive

Mark Masters

Matthew Wood entered last season with a new sense of determination. 

"My mindset was just don't back down from anyone," the 6-foot-3, 185-pound winger said. "Don't be afraid. You got to believe in yourself. If you're not going to be the first person to believe in yourself, then no one is. You got to trust what you can do and trust you can show your abilities."

Wood showed off his abilities to the tune of 85 points in 46 games with the Victoria Grizzlies. That's more productive than the 16-year-old seasons put together by Kyle Turris, Alex Newhook and Kent Johnson in the British Columbia Hockey League. 

Wood will now confront a new challenge. The 17-year-old from Nanaimo, B.C. is making the jump from Junior A to the NCAA where he will play for the University of Connecticut. 

"I'm going to believe in myself this year," Wood said. "Facing higher competition is going to be really beneficial for my development long term. Everyone in college is really good, really old, really strong and really fast. It will help me increase my pace of play and push myself. I'm ready to make this step." 

Get used to hearing the name Matthew Wood. He could very well be a top-10 pick next year. He's a 6'3", 16-year-old winger who led the BCHL in scoring this season, scoring 85 points (45G/40A) in just 46 games. #2023NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/4ACsQPMBW9

During a conversation with TSN, Wood spoke about the adjustments he will need to make as a college freshman. He also explained how living with Regina Pats phenom Connor Bedard helped him develop a potent shot. The following is an edited transcript of the interview.  

What will be the biggest adjustment when it comes to the NCAA game? 

"I would