Maple Leafs celebrate Auston Matthews’ record with special pregame ceremony (Image via: twitter) Auston Matthews etched his name into Toronto Maple Leafs history as the team honored him in a pregame ceremony at Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday. The Maple Leafs celebrated their captain becoming the franchise’s all-time leading goal scorer, a milestone that underscores his remarkable scoring ability and consistent impact since joining the team. Matthews surpassed Mats Sundin’s long-standing record with his 421st NHL goal, scored against the New York Islanders on Saturday. The ceremony featured Sundin presenting Matthews with a commemorative plaque that included pucks from his 420th and 421st goals, along with the official game sheet.
Auston Matthews honored with custom Maple Leafs Jerseys, Mats Sundin joins celebration
The Maple Leafs marked the occasion with custom T-shirts worn by players, featuring artistic renditions of Matthews and the words “Toronto Maple Leafs all-time goals leader.” In his 10th season with Toronto, Matthews has already claimed the NHL’s Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy three times, leading the league in goals in 2020-21 with 41, 2021-22 with 60, and 2023-24 with 69. His scoring consistency has made him a central figure for the franchise and a key player in their offensive strategy.Speaking about Sundin’s presence, Matthews said, “It means a lot. To have Mats come in, and to have so many players pave the way who have worn this jersey, it’s very special and I’m very very appreciative.” Sundin watched the ceremony alongside former teammate Tie Domi and Domi’s son Max, who is now a forward with Toronto. Max made his own mark during the game, drawing the crowd’s attention with a notable altercation against Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad.Sundin reflected on Matthews’ rapid pace to the record, noting that Matthews reached 421 goals in just 664 games, compared to his own 420 goals in 981 games. “I thought it might take him a little longer,” Sundin said with a laugh. He added that witnessing history and records being broken is meaningful, particularly for those who have worn the Maple Leafs jersey. Matthews’ achievement not only honors his talent but also reinforces his role as a central figure in the team’s ongoing pursuit of success.Also Read: Auston Matthews redefines Toronto Maple Leafs history with record goals and a defining NHL hat trick benchmark