Matthews rapidly approaching franchise records; became third rookie in Leafs history to score 30
TORONTO — Auston Matthews had No. 31 on his stick.
It was less than a minute into Saturday’s overtime and the 19-year-old was in alone opposite Montreal Canadiens all-world netminder Carey Price. Matthews had already beaten Price twice in regulation and another goal would have delivered the Maple Leafs a much-needed two points — not to mention a second career hat trick for the already dominant American centre.
Matthews got the shot off — despite Alex Galchenyuk’s best efforts in retreat, including an attempted whack — but Price got the knob of his stick on it, sending the shot and ultimately the game Montreal’s way as the Canadiens went on to win 3-2.
“He’s alright,” Price said sarcastically of Matthews afterward. “I think he’ll be a good player in this league.”