Auston Matthews Scores Twice, Leading Maple Leafs to Victory Over Panthers in Playoff Preview Clash
Matthews' league-leading 61st and 62nd goals of the season helped the Toronto Maple Leafs secure a 6-4 win against the Florida Panthers, setting the stage for a potential playoff showdown.
- Auston Matthews scored his 61st and 62nd goals of the season, contributing to the Toronto Maple Leafs' 6-4 victory over the Florida Panthers.
- The Maple Leafs were without five regulars, including Mitch Marner, but still managed to outplay the Panthers in what could be a first-round playoff preview.
- Despite a late push from the Panthers, Matthews sealed the win with an empty net goal, marking his second time hitting 60 goals in a season.
- The Leafs' victory was crucial as they aim for a postseason berth, while the Panthers missed the opportunity to overtake the Boston Bruins for first in the Atlantic Division.
- This win follows a notable performance by Matthews, who scored a historic 60th goal in a previous game, leading to a bizarre 10-player brawl.