TORONTO Auston MatthewsAs the NHL's leading scorer, he scored his 59th and 60th goals as the Toronto Maple LeafsIt was defeated Detroit Red WingsTo secure home-ice advantage in Round 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs, it was 3-0 on Tuesday night
American 24-year-old American snapped a five game goal drought and is now the first player to score 60 goals in a campaign. Steven StamkosIn 2011-12.
Matthews made it clear throughout the season that these Maple Leafs have bigger plans than regular-season statistics. He also remained true to his strategy during his postgame media availability.
He said simply, “Job's still not finished.” “Work is not done.”
John Tavareshad the other goal Jack CampbellTo register his fifth shutout for Toronto (53-21-7), he made 20 saves. This was a franchise record and the team's 30th home win of the season. William NylanderTwo additional assists were added.
The No. The Leafs are now locked into the No. 2 seed in Atlantic Division. They will open the playoffs next Wednesday at Scotiabank Arena against either of the Boston BruinsOr Tampa Bay Lightning.
Matthews, who was able to suit up for his third consecutive game after missing three games in a row due to an undisclosed injury had many great looks throughout the first 35 minutes of the game before Nedeljkovic solved the problem with 4:12 remaining in the second period.
“It's special, it's unique, it's rare. Toronto coach Sheldon Keefe said. He is a skilled player, and he works hard to improve his skills. It's incredible to see him at his best and reach these milestones.
The Leafs are in the middle of a line-change. Jason SpezzaMatthews fed and led before he outwaited Detroit's goaltender, and slid home No. Before the “M-V–P!” chants, 59. Scotiabank Arena.
Matthews' season was described by Tavares as “unreal”, the captain of the team.
After Tavares had doubled the Leafs lead at 4:13 of the third, with his 27th goal, Matthews made history when he buried No. 60: Matthews made history with his power play at 5 :49. He kept the puck in the offensive blue line and then ripped a shot past Nedeljkovic to send the crowd into another frenzy.
Matthews' teammates gave him a standing ovation, while fans threw hats onto the ice to celebrate the achievement.
“It was quite special, honestly. Matthews said that Matthews was overwhelmed by the reception from teammates and others. It sends chills through your bones. It's hard to describe, don't you think?
Matthews and Toronto will try to win the first round, making it more difficult. After a slow start, the Lightning have become back-to-back Stanley Cup champions. The Bruins are now at 100 points. Both teams won on Tuesday night. Together, they have the Eastern Conference titles.
Friday night's regular-season finale will see the Maple Leafs host the Bruins.
This report was contributed by The Associated Press.
