Auston Matthews Nears Historic 70-Goal Milestone, Maple Leafs Secure Playoff Position
Matthews inches closer to becoming the ninth NHL player to score 70 goals in a season, leading Toronto to a crucial victory over New Jersey.
- Auston Matthews scored his 66th goal of the season in the Maple Leafs' 5-2 win against the New Jersey Devils, edging closer to the historic 70-goal mark.
- Matthews' 66 goals are the most in a season among all active NHL players, surpassing Alex Ovechkin's previous high of 65.
- The victory over New Jersey ends the Devils' playoff hopes while solidifying the Maple Leafs' position in the postseason.
- Despite his scoring success, Matthews emphasizes team success over individual records, aiming to improve the Maple Leafs' playoff performance.
- Matthews is the first player since Alexander Ovechkin in 2007-08 to score more than 65 goals in a season, with only four games left to reach or surpass 70.