Auston Matthews celebrates after scoring against the New Jersey Devils in NHL action on April 9, 2024 (image source: X / @MapleLeafs)

Matthews Leads Maple Leafs to Victory, Closing in on Historic 70-Goal Milestone

April 9, 2024 Ennio Sorgini

Newark, N.J. (GTA Today) — Auston Matthews continues to dazzle hockey fans across the league as he inches closer to a historic milestone. With his league-leading 66th goal of the season, Matthews propelled the Toronto Maple Leafs to a decisive 5-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday night, effectively extinguishing the Devils’ playoff hopes.

Matthews, who is now on a six-game goal streak and a twelve-game point streak, is well aware of the mounting expectations surrounding his performance this season. With just four games remaining in the regular season, the 26-year-old center acknowledges the desire from his teammates and the Toronto faithful for him to reach the elusive 70-goal mark, a feat achieved by only eight players in NHL history.

However, amidst the mounting pressure, Matthews remains focused on the process, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistency and not letting the weight of expectations affect his performance.

PapStar ⭐️@ImperialOil | #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/8KVvOdSjPV

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) April 10, 2024

The Maple Leafs, after a sluggish start, found their rhythm late in the second period, with goals from Mark Giordano and Tyler Bertuzzi within a staggering 9-second span. Bertuzzi, who also added an empty-net goal for his 21st of the season, echoed Matthews’ sentiments on the team’s need to stay focused and adopt a playoff mindset heading into the postseason.

Despite the Devils’ efforts, including goals from Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer, goaltender Joseph Woll stood tall with 18 saves to secure the victory for Toronto.

Matthews’ 66 goals this season not only lead the league but also set a new high among all active players. With the anticipation building, the hockey world eagerly awaits to see if he can join the elite ranks of players who have reached the 70-goal milestone.

In the illustrious history of the NHL, only Wayne Gretzky, Brett Hull, Mario Lemieux, Alexander Mogilny, Phil Esposito, Teemu Selanne, Jari Kurri, and Bernie Nicholls have achieved this remarkable feat.

The Maple Leafs will have another opportunity to showcase their prowess as they face off against the Devils once again on Thursday night, this time on home ice at Scotiabank Arena.

Commentary:

Auston Matthews’ performance this season has been nothing short of spectacular, and it’s truly exciting to witness him on the cusp of making history. As a Maple Leafs reporter, it’s been a privilege to cover his journey and the team’s quest for success. The anticipation surrounding Matthews’ pursuit of the 70-goal milestone only adds to the excitement of the postseason looming ahead. With each game, the Maple Leafs are proving themselves to be a force to be reckoned with, and fans can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented squad.