Matthews has scored 40 goals in just 49 games. This is certainly an impressive accomplishment. As of right now, no one else in the NHL has scored no more than 31 goals.
The last time an NHL player did this was back in the 1995-96 season, where Mario Lemieux scored 69 goals in 70 games.
In addition, Matthews may be set up to take home the Rocket Richard Trophy, given to the NHL’s top goal-scorer.
He’s having his best year yet, along with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Leafs are on the road to picking up their third division title since the 1962-63 season. All they would need is either for the Edmonton Oilers to lose or to get one more point. That won’t be too hard for a team like the Leafs to secure. They have a relatively easy opportunity, so there’s no excuse for not securing their third division title.
Matthews is the Leafs’ Golden Nugget
Matthews is certainly the best player on the squad for the Leafs. There is certainly no doubt that he won’t be heavily relied on during the playoffs. He can provide strong offense and plenty of scoring, so the Leafs will be utilizing every opportunity they can get with Matthews on the ice.
The Leafs are first in the North Division and hold a 34-13-6 record so far. The team has been playing strong. Despite the fact that they have lost some games, they have always made a huge comeback. For example, the Leafs were aiming to win six-straight games until the Montreal Canadiens took the win.
A loss is a loss, and the Leafs didn’t let it discourage them for a single moment. During their rematch, they began playing stronger than ever as a team. They took the game and won 5-2, with the help of Matthews, as well.
Considering all what Matthews has contributed to the team over the past few years that he’s been on the team, he was always been the team’s most vital asset. Without Matthews, the Leafs would likely still continue performing how they’ve been doing over the last few months, but they wouldn’t be able to score as many goals to ensure a healthy lead without Matthews.
There is no doubt that Matthews is exactly what the Leafs need – as a matter of fact, Matthews is probably what all teams are looking for.
At just 23-years old, Matthews has many more years left to play hockey and make even more history on the ice. He is just one of those players all the other teams have to look out for, especially during the playoffs. Every game is at stake now, and every game will matter even more as the Leafs make the race to the Stanley Cup Finals.
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