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yesterday

Matthews Nets Hat Trick as Maple Leafs Rally Past Jets, One Shy of Sundin

The performance gave Toronto a needed lift in the playoff chase, trimming the gap to two points for the final wild-card berth.

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Dec 29, 2025; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators left wing Fabian Zetterlund (20) skates with the puck in the first period against the Columbus Blue Jackets at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-IMAGN Images

Overview

  • Auston Matthews scored three goals, including the winner with 4:22 left, and added an assist in a 6-5 comeback from a 4-1 deficit against Winnipeg.
  • His four-point night pushed him to 419 career goals and a franchise-best 232 at home, leaving him one shy of Mats Sundin’s all-time Leafs goals record.
  • Starter Joseph Woll was pulled after allowing four on 18 shots; Dennis Hildeby stopped 22 of 23 in relief to earn the win.
  • The result moved Toronto to 19-15-6 and within two points of the East’s second wild-card spot, while the Jets fell to 15-20-6 with an eighth straight loss.
  • William Nylander remained out with a lower-body issue and was listed as doubtful to practice Friday, with Toronto set to visit the Islanders on Saturday.