It was back and forth through and through between the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Islanders last night, but the Buds narrowly managed to squeak their way to a victory at the Barclay Center. With less than four minutes remaining in regulation, sophomore sensation Auston Matthews put home the game’s winning goal on a slick pass from William Nylander to give Toronto a 5-4 lead.
Barring a blowout, it’s rare to see a tight game total nine total goals in today’s NHL, though it’s not as uncommon for the Maple Leafs, who rank second only behind the Tampa Bay Lightning (276) with 259 goals for this season. Following the matchup, Matthews admitted the contest was probably frustrating for his head coach Mike Babcock and Islanders bench boss Doug Weight.
The Leafs aren’t used to allowing so many goals, considering they rank 12th with just 221 goals allowed on the season. The Islanders, on the other hand, rank dead-last in goals against with 281 in 78 games.
Adres Kudacki/Canadian Press
Following the game, the 20-year-old made sure to recognize his teammates for their impressive play and hard work on the goal.
After suffering numerous injuries this season, it appears as though Matthews is returning to his regular self at the perfect time for the Leafs. Toronto sits third in the Atlantic Division and will likely face either the Tampa Bay Lightning or Boston Bruins in the first round.
(H/T Mark Masters)
