Drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers 2nd overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.
On March 28, 2014, he tied an NHL record for fastest goal to start off a period, scoring a goal four seconds into the frame.
Has two younger brothers who also play hockey: Trevor (born on July 24, 1991) who is a defenseman for the Carolina Hurricanes of the NHL and Brendan (born on January 28, 1996) who plays for the University of New Hampshire.
Traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs on June 23, 2012.
Was named NHL Rookie of the Month in November of 2009.