The Toronto Maple Leafs continued their impressive season last night with a memorable 4-3 overtime victory over their infamous rival, the Montreal Canadiens.
Toronto had fallen to Montreal in 14 straight prior matchups, so the victory came as a huge relief for both the team and its fans. Sophomore phenome Auston Matthews sealed the deal with a shot that narrowly snuck by goaltender Carey Price in the extra frame.
While all eyes were on the 19-year-old following the contest, coach Mike Babcock quietly made another stride in the history books. With the win, Babs became just the 16th coach in NHL history to reach the 600 win mark.
At just 54 years old, the Manitouwadge, Ontario native currently sits fifth among active coaches. According to Hockey Reference, Babcock remains only behind Alain Vigneault (615), Barry Trotz (716), Ken Hitchcock (783) and Joel Quennville (855). It’s worth noting that Winnipeg Jets head coach Paul Maurice won his 599th game last night against the Carolina Hurricanes.
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The legendary Scotty Bowman stands as the all-time leader with 1,244 to his name, an intimidating number to any head coach hoping to surpass him. The total may not be within reach, however, it’s reasonable to believe Babcock will finish among the winningest coaches in history by the end of his career. With an impressive group of young stars leading the way, he’s in a great position to make history in the coming years.
(H/T StatsCentre)
