For the first time since the 2012-2013 season, the Toronto Maple Leafs are heading to the postseason.
It’s hard to believe, considering many thought this team was going to be a basement dweller due to their youth. However, as the hockey world witnessed in their playoff-clinching win (and whole season, for that matter), age isn’t necessarily a factor anymore in today’s NHL.
It was only fitting that rookie Auston Matthews sealed the deal for the Leafs while joining elite company in the process. He became just the fourth player to reach the 40-goal mark before celebrating his 20th birthday.
Here’s a look at some other milestones from one of the most memorable games in recent Leafs history.
Matthews becomes first 40-goal scorer for Leafs since Sundin
That’s right. The last player to reach the impressive mark was former Leafs captain and Hall of Famer, Mats Sundin.
Connor Brown reaches 20 goals
Connor Brown became the Leafs’ third rookie, and fifth player to reach the 20-goal mark this season. P.A. Parenteau was the only player to reach that total for the team last season.
Kasperi Kapanen scores his first NHL goal
And was it ever a big one. His first career goal tied the game with just 5:30 left in the third period. It’s not like he hasn’t pulled through in the clutch before though...
James van Riemsdyk becomes the fifth Leafs player to reach the 60-point mark this season
It’s the first time the team has had this many 60-point players since the 2005-2006 season. Those players included Mats Sundin (78), Bryan McCabe (68), Tomas Kaberle (67), Darcy Tucker (61), and Jason Allison (60).
Although the Leafs lack playoff experience, this team has potential to open a whole lot of eyes in the coming weeks.
Buckle up, because this postseason is sure to be a wild one!
