“SHOCKING! Maple Leafs’ Matthews Breaks Records AGAIN – You Won’t Believe His Goal-Scoring Feat! 😱🚨 #NHL #MapleLeafs”

**Maple Leafs Encounter Overtime Setback Against Islanders Again**

In a nail-biting rematch against the New York Islanders, the Toronto Maple Leafs faced another 4-3 overtime defeat, mirroring their loss exactly a month ago. The Islanders’ defenseman Noah Dobson, with a total of 36 assists this season, played a pivotal role in securing the win, contributing to every goal.

Notably, Mathew Barzal shone for the Islanders, assisting on the first three goals and sealing the victory with a quick overtime goal. Despite Auston Matthews’ impressive performance, scoring two goals and reaching 33 goals in 38 games, the Maple Leafs’ four-game winning streak came to an end.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe attributed the loss to special teams’ struggles, emphasizing the team’s strong 5-on-5 play. Despite the setback, Matthews continues to dominate the NHL goal-scoring charts, maintaining his lead since the 2018-19 season.

**Auston Matthews’ Goal-Scoring Prowess**

Matthews showcased his goal-scoring prowess with a backhander and a breakaway goal, marking his 70th multiple-goal game, placing him just behind Darryl Sittler in Maple Leafs history. With 33 goals in 38 games, he remains a key contributor to the team’s offensive success.

A comparison of leading NHL goal scorers since 2018-19 underscores Matthews’ prolific nature, topping the charts with 458 total points.

| Player | Team | Goals | Assists | Total Points |
| —————— | ——————— | —– | ——- | ———— |
| Auston Matthews | Toronto Maple Leafs | 258 | 200 | 458 |
| Leon Draisaitl | Edmonton Oilers | 250 | 330 | 580 |
| Connor McDavid | Edmonton Oilers | 232 | 418 | 650 |
| David Pastrnak | Boston Bruins | 232 | 239 | 471 |
| Alex Ovechkin | Washington Capitals | 223 | 167 | 390 |

**Martin Jones’ Sturdy Form in the New Year**

Despite the overtime loss, goaltender Martin Jones maintains an undefeated regulation record in 2024. With a 4-0-1 record since the new year, Jones has been a reliable presence with an 8-3-1 overall record in 11 starts. His impressive 2.15 GAA and .928 save percentage rank high in the NHL.

**Relief for Matthew Knies after Minor Injury Scare**

Forward Matthew Knies, initially feared to miss the game due to a knee twist during practice, returned to the first line alongside Matthews and Marner. Knies, showing promising development, contributed with an assist, marking his second consecutive game with a point.

As Knies navigates fluctuations in his offensive output, parallels are drawn to Zach Hyman’s early days with the Maple Leafs. Hyman, currently on track for 50 goals, scored his 26th in the latest Oilers’ victory. Knies remains one to watch as he evolves within the Maple Leafs’ system, potentially mirroring Hyman’s impactful trajectory.