In his hometown of Phoenix, Arizona, Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs wrote his name into NHL hockey history last night. Most Maple Leafs fans hoped that he would score goal number 50 in front of his family and friends. Well, Matthews did just that; and, he went one better. He got number 51 as well.
With these two goals against the Coyotes, Matthews not only helped his team win but also marked yet another milestone in his growing career.
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Matthews: Chasing Records in the Desert
Matthews is on a historic pace this season, eyeing the prestigious 70-goal milestone before the season ends. His remarkable performance last night put him in elite company. He now can be mentioned in the same breath as the legendary Mario Lemieux of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He also passed the feat of Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers.
Matthews began the game with 49 goals under his belt this season and stood on the brink of becoming the fastest player to reach fifty goals in a season since Lemieux accomplished the feat in just 50 games back in 1995-96. He did just that; and, as I noted, went one better!
When his Maple Leafs faced off against the Coyotes in Phoenix, Matthews, who grew up in the area, grabbed center stage and created a storybook moment. With fans and his family cheering him on from the stands, Matthews jumped into the opportunity to make history on home ice. His 50th goal of the season came early in the game, just 5:01 into the first period. Then, when he netted his 51st goal in the second period, the crowd celebrated with him.
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Beyond Matthews Numbers
Matthews’ remarkable season isn’t just about the goals he scores. It’s also about the impact he’s had on his team’s success. He’s carrying the team with his achievements. Yet, Matthews and the coaching staff remain focused on the ultimate goal. They are after a deep playoff run this season with the Maple Leafs. That was evident when he sat out most of the third period so the depth players could carry the team to the win.
As I noted before in a post earlier in the week, it’s really interesting that – for the long history the Maple Leafs franchise has had – we are watching the best player in team history right now. That’s Matthews.
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