TAMPA. Auston Matthews is still hot, we note in the NHL sweep.
Last night he celebrated his first place in Toronto’s historic shooting league with another goal – and was celebrated on the ice by former record holder Mats Sundin.
– Records are there to be broken, so I am very happy for Auston, says “Sudden”.
NIGHT’S HISTORICAL SAGITTARIUS KING
Already when he scored the 421st goal of his NHL career in overtime against the New York Islanders on Long Island last Saturday, Auston Matthews passed Mats Sundin at the top of Toronto’s all-time scoring league – and before tonight’s game against Florida at home in Scotiabank Arena, the feat was celebrated during a ceremony on the ice, with Sundin in attendance.
– Every generation has its stars and it’s fantastic to see that Auston has already reached this far. My eleven-year-old son, who plays hockey has a picture of him as a screen saver now, says “Sudden” with a wide smile during a TV interview.
– Records are meant to be broken, so I’m very happy for Auston.
Matthews, red-hot after a long layoff, thanked all the attention — including a standing ovation — by helping the Leafs to a tough 4-1 victory with another goal.
– It was a fantastic honor to see Mats on the ice, the whole evening felt very, very special, says the 28-year-old American.
William Nylander is still out with an injury and didn’t play tonight’s game either.
Footnote: Mats Sundin scored a total of 564 goals in his NHL career – which is a Swedish record – but 135 of them came while he belonged to the Quebec Nordiques and nine in the final season with Vancouver.
The text is updated
