Matthew Phillips had a very productive 2019-20 season with the Stockton Heat, recording 33 points in 38 games.
Scratch below the surface, and you’ll find that his campaign could have become something even greater.
Phillips recorded 30 points (14 goals and 16 assists) in his first 28 contests to begin his sophomore effort in the AHL. He looked well on his way towards categorically surpassing his output (13 goals and 25 assists) from the 65 games he played in his rookie year.
The Flames rewarded Phillips with his first NHL recall on Dec. 9, 2019, giving him a three-day pay rise despite a lack of big-league game action.