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Auston Matthews leads Toronto Maple Leafs to Victory
In a thrilling game on Tuesday night, Auston Matthews guided the Toronto Maple Leafs to a resounding 5-2 win over New Jersey, crushing the Devils’ hopes for a playoff spot. The victory was punctuated by Matthews’ historic 66th goal, placing him on the cusp of joining an elite group of players in NHL history.
Key Moments
Mark Giordano and Tyler Bertuzzi played pivotal roles late in the second period, scoring in a remarkable 9-second span to shift the momentum in favor of the Maple Leafs. This surge gave Toronto a 3-2 lead, setting the stage for their sixth win in seven games. Nicholas Robertson also contributed a goal, while Joseph Woll’s superb goaltending with 18 saves bolstered the team’s defense.
On the opposing side, Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer managed to find the back of the net for the Devils, but it was not enough to overcome the Maple Leafs’ offensive prowess. Jake Allen put up a valiant effort with 32 saves, but the relentless Toronto offense proved too much for New Jersey to handle.
Matthews’ Milestone
Matthews’ 66th goal of the season, a sensational shot from the circle that eluded Allen in the final period, showcased his scoring prowess and consistency. With a six-game scoring streak under his belt, Matthews stands as the frontrunner among active players for the highest number of goals in a single season.
Bertuzzi’s late goal into an empty net, marking his 21st of the season, sealed the Maple Leafs’ victory and added to the team’s growing list of accomplishments in the game.
Historical Context
As Matthews inches towards potentially reaching the coveted 70-goal mark in a season, the significance of his achievement cannot be overstated. Should he succeed, Matthews would become only the ninth player in NHL history to achieve this milestone, joining the ranks of legends such as Wayne Gretzky, Brett Hull, and Mario Lemieux.
Notably, Gretzky holds the record for the most goals in a single season with an impressive 92 in the 1981-82 campaign, a feat that has yet to be surpassed. The illustrious list of players who have scored 70 goals in a regular season serves as a testament to the exceptional skill and talent required to reach such heights in the sport.
Upcoming Matches
The Maple Leafs are set to face the Devils once again on Thursday night, offering a chance for both teams to showcase their competitive spirit and determination on the ice. With the stakes high and the intensity mounting, fans can expect another thrilling showdown as the two teams vie for supremacy in the NHL.
Meanwhile, the Devils will look to regroup and refine their strategy as they prepare to take on Toronto in a rematch that promises to deliver more nail-biting moments and exhilarating plays.
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