It’s surprising when you look at it how much Rick Vaive scored with the Toronto Maple Leafs. In some seasons, he was one of only a few things that went right with the team. He played with Maple Leafs’ teams during an era when they were really not that great. But he always could score goals.
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Auston Matthews Is Replacing Vaive in the Maple Leafs’ Record Book
However, right now, Auston Matthews is on the verge of reaching huge milestones in franchise history. Currently, he’s tied with Vaive for fifth place in all-time franchise goals with 299. Matthews is also one goal away from scoring his 300th career goal.
In addition, if Matthews can maintain his impressive goal-scoring form and pot at least 34 goals this season, he will pass Vaive on the all-time goal-scoring list and rise to fourth place.
But Matthews’ accomplishments don’t stop there. He is also headed toward the 600-point milestone for the Maple Leafs. If he gets just 58 points during the 2023-24 season, he will reach this milestone as well. He’s one of the team’s top players and a cornerstone of the franchise. Matthews suddenly seems poised to leave his mark forever in Maple Leafs’ history.
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Matthews Had a Down Season in 2022-23
During the 2022-23 season, Matthews proved his ability on the ice with an impressive performance, even though he was seen to have a down year for him. Despite a nagging wrist injury throughout the season, he showed his skills, scoring 40 goals and putting up 85 points in just 74 games.
By the end of the 2022-23 season, he had passed legendary Maple Leafs’ players like Tim Horton, Lanny MacDonald, Tomas Kaberle, and Vaive in the all-time points list. Currently, he stands in 11th place in franchise scoring, trailing only teammate Mitch Marner, who has put up 554 points himself.
Matthews Is Set to Fly By Vaive in His Goals Mark
Matthews is tied with Vaive for the fifth spot in franchise history for goals (with 299). As the 2023-24 season starts, his first goal will be the 300th goal of his career. Assuming Matthews can maintain his pace and score at least 34 goals this season, he’ll surpass Vaive on the all-time goal-scoring list and rise to the coveted fourth position.
Watch out, Rick Vaive! Matthews is ready to pass you in the record book again. With just a goal and 58 points needed to hit the 600-point milestone, look for Matthews to continue his onslaught on Maple Leafs’ history.
Who knows how many goals or points Matthews will put up before he hangs up his blue & white jersey? Lots more, I would guess.
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